Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has urged President Bola Tinubu’s administration to address the grievances surrounding Nnamdi Kanu’s case and clarify the continued detention of former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai and Sheikh Sani Khalifa Zaria.
Atiku made the call in his Independence Day address on Thursday in Abuja, marking Nigeria’s 66th anniversary.
He said Kanu’s right to appeal following his conviction should be respected, while the issues surrounding his case should be addressed.
“Following Mazi Nnamdi Kanu’s conviction, his right to lawful appeal must be respected, while the grievances and divisions surrounding his case must be addressed seriously,” Atiku said.
He also questioned the continued detention of El-Rufai and Sheikh Zaria, calling on the authorities to provide answers on due process.
Atiku further demanded the release of five young Nigerians arrested in Borno over their alleged involvement in wearing “Tinubu Must Go” T-shirts.
“A political slogan on a shirt must never become a reason to imprison a Nigerian,” he said.
On the economy, Atiku criticised the Tinubu administration over the rising cost of living, saying Nigerians were struggling with higher prices for food, fuel and other essentials.
He also criticised the extension of the 2025 budget’s implementation period to December 31, 2026, questioning how multiple budgets could remain operational at the same time.
Atiku also demanded an account of the cash transfers reportedly made to more than 10 million Nigerians, after APC Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda said beneficiaries received ₦75,000 each.
He questioned how beneficiaries without phones were identified and paid, particularly in areas affected by insecurity.
On fuel subsidy removal, Atiku said he would introduce a capped production subsidy tied to verified fuel refined in Nigeria if elected in 2027.
He said imported petrol would not qualify for the proposed subsidy and promised that payments would be independently audited.
Atiku also questioned the government’s promise to reduce transport fares from October 1.
“Before I forget, you promised Nigerians lower transport fares from October 1. Today is October 1. Did your promise miss the bus?” he asked.
On public debt, Atiku cited a figure of ₦166.79 trillion as of June and questioned plans for additional World Bank borrowing.
He also demanded greater transparency over the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway contract, alleging that Hitech, a Chagoury Group company, was awarded the project through restricted bidding.
On the 2027 election, Atiku said he would respect the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), support the publication of results from polling units and ensure that electoral offences are prosecuted regardless of political affiliation.
He ended his address by calling for political change through the ballot, saying, “The message is clear: Tinubu must go.”
