April 17, 2026
SUNTV Global Channel Report
Former Vice President has launched a strong verbal attack on President , accusing him of hypocrisy, distortion of historical facts, and political desperation following recent comments credited to the presidency.
In a statement issued through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described Tinubu’s remarks as a “reckless tirade” and a reflection of what he called a pattern of historical amnesia and inconsistency.
The statement alleged that the President attempted to discredit Atiku’s public service record while ignoring his own controversies and public scrutiny. It also claimed that Tinubu’s comments were more focused on political attacks than engaging with factual issues.
Atiku’s camp defended his role in Nigeria’s privatisation programme during his time in government, insisting that several major companies emerged from the reforms he supervised, which they said helped revive struggling state-owned enterprises.
These include firms such as Oando Plc, Conoil Plc, Ardova Plc, Indorama Eleme Petrochemicals, Benue Cement Company, and Transcorp Hilton Abuja, which they described as evidence of long-term economic impact.
The statement further accused the current administration of selectively criticising past reforms while allegedly carrying out similar policies under different conditions and without transparency.
It also responded strongly to remarks attributed to Tinubu, including a controversial claim suggesting that Atiku’s position reflects a lack of understanding of historical records. The statement dismissed such comments as political insults rather than meaningful debate.
Atiku’s team also referenced ongoing public debates surrounding Nigeria’s economic direction, stating that many citizens are currently facing rising inflation, unemployment, and hardship under current government policies.
They maintained that Atiku’s record in public office remains “clear and defensible,” while urging the President to focus on governance rather than personal attacks.
The statement concluded with a warning that Nigerians are closely watching the exchange between both political leaders as political tensions continue to rise ahead of future elections.
