ABUJA, Nigeria — Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration over comments comparing his actions to how China treats corruption-related offences, arguing that the Presidency’s attempt to discredit him has instead intensified public scrutiny of the government.
In a statement issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the Presidency’s communication strategy as a “monumental own goal,” insisting that government officials had resorted to personal attacks instead of addressing issues of national concern. His reaction followed an exchange over reports that a U.S.-based group linked to him had petitioned the administration of President Donald Trump and the United States Department of State regarding Tinubu’s 1993 civil forfeiture case in the United States.
Atiku maintained that rather than responding to the substance of the concerns raised, the Presidency had chosen to engage in name-calling and political rhetoric. According to him, Nigerians expect factual explanations and policy-driven responses from those in government, especially at a time when the country is grappling with economic hardship, insecurity and rising living costs.
The former vice president also faulted the Presidency’s comparison with China, arguing that invoking a country renowned for its strict anti-corruption and anti-drug enforcement only raised more difficult questions for the government. He said he has never been indicted or convicted of corruption or drug-related offences anywhere in the world, describing that record as verifiable and part of the public domain.
Atiku further argued that references to China’s legal system should prompt broader discussions about accountability, transparency and ethical governance. He contended that countries with strong anti-corruption institutions would not tolerate scandals, allegations of financial misconduct or abuse of public office without thorough investigation and legal consequences. He also dismissed reliance on diplomatic correspondence as evidence of exoneration, insisting that such documents do not amount to judicial clearance or legal absolution.
The former vice president urged the Tinubu administration to shift its attention away from political confrontations and focus instead on addressing Nigeria’s pressing national challenges. He said the government should prioritise tackling inflation, unemployment, insecurity, declining purchasing power and other socio-economic issues affecting ordinary citizens rather than engaging in political exchanges with opposition figures.
The latest war of words marks another escalation in the growing political rivalry between the Tinubu administration and leading opposition figures as preparations gradually gather pace ahead of the 2027 general elections. Recent weeks have seen both sides exchange accusations over governance, accountability and past political events, reflecting an increasingly charged political atmosphere.
Political analysts say the continuing public exchanges underscore the intensity of Nigeria’s evolving political landscape, with opposition leaders seeking to challenge the government’s record while the Presidency continues to defend its policies and leadership. Observers note that as the 2027 election cycle approaches, public debate is likely to become increasingly focused on issues of governance, economic performance, transparency and political accountability.
