Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar made headlines on Sunday by suggesting that President Bola Tinubu should be more open to adopting ideas from his predecessors to address Nigeria’s pressing economic issues. Atiku’s comments come amid widespread public dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s economic policies, which many have labeled as ineffective.
In a post shared on his X account, Atiku revealed that he has been receiving numerous inquiries from Nigerians seeking solutions to the country’s ongoing challenges. He emphasized that these inquiries, while well-intentioned, could detract from the urgent focus needed on Tinubu’s administration. “The focus should be on him and not on me or any other,” Atiku stated, underscoring the responsibility that lies with the current leadership.
Atiku criticized Tinubu’s recent economic strategies, particularly the floating of the exchange rate system, which he described as an “overkill.” He argued that such measures have compounded the suffering of ordinary Nigerians and called for a reassessment of current policies. “I believe that such inquiries distract from the critical questions of what President Bola Tinubu needs to do to save Nigerians from the excruciating pains arising from his trial-and-error economic policies,” he noted.
Furthermore, Atiku expressed empathy for the struggles faced by citizens, acknowledging their desperation for viable alternatives to the existing economic framework. “I understand and appreciate the challenges faced by citizens in seeking alternatives to what is not working for them,” he remarked, indicating a shared concern for the well-being of the populace.
Atiku did not shy away from offering potential solutions himself, stating, “I hope Tinubu and members of his administration are humble enough to borrow one or two things from our ideas in the interest of the Nigerian people.” This call for humility highlights a perceived disconnect between the current government’s approach and the needs of its citizens.
The former Vice President concluded by promising to outline specific ideas that he believes could transform Nigeria’s economic landscape. “I would now go ahead and articulate some of our ideas that would have had the potential to transform our beloved country,” he added, setting the stage for a broader discussion on policy reform.
