The Presidency has renewed its criticism of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, accusing the 2027 presidential hopeful of hypocrisy over his position on the Federal Government’s economic reforms.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, made the remarks in a statement posted on X on Sunday. Dare argued that political leaders should be willing to defend difficult policy decisions rather than make promises aimed at gaining electoral advantage.
The presidential aide’s comments followed Atiku’s renewed criticism of the administration, particularly over the removal of the petrol subsidy and its impact on Nigerians.
Dare said effective leadership requires politicians to stand by difficult reforms when necessary, rather than adopting positions he described as populist for political gain.
“True leadership requires the courage to defend difficult, foundational reforms even when the political weather is rough,” Dare said.
He accused Atiku of underestimating Nigerians and described what he called the former vice president’s political approach as an attempt to exploit public dissatisfaction ahead of the 2027 election.
“Atiku’s hypocrisy is an insult to the collective intelligence of a resilient populace navigating global economic headwinds,” Dare added.
The exchange is significant because economic policy is expected to be a major issue in the 2027 presidential campaign. The removal of the fuel subsidy in May 2023 triggered a sharp increase in petrol prices and contributed to widespread concerns over living costs.
Atiku has remained critical of aspects of Tinubu’s economic policies and has advocated measures aimed at easing the pressure on households.
The latest disagreement reflects the growing political rivalry between the two camps. Tinubu defeated Atiku in the 2023 presidential election, while Atiku is now seeking to challenge the ruling establishment again through the African Democratic Congress (ADC).
As political activities gather momentum ahead of 2027, Nigerians are expected to closely examine the economic records, policy proposals and campaign promises of the leading contenders.
