The former Vice President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has strongly criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue State, calling it a political show instead of a genuine move to support victims of violence or address worsening security issues in the region.
The remark was made public through Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, during an interview in Abuja on Thursday. He noted that the administration is more interested in optics and public image than in solving the real problems affecting the people, especially the insecurity that has led to numerous deaths across the country.
“It’s commendable when a leader empathises with the people; offering a shoulder to lean on and sharing in their grief is a mark of true leadership. However, the visit was marred by political theatrics. Children were lined up on the highway, waving at the president in the rain; subjecting them to such conditions was unnecessary,” Ibe said.
The adviser pointed out that, despite the killings of over 200 persons in recent attacks within the state, no suspects have been arrested. Instead, peaceful protesters demanding justice and improved safety were tear-gassed by the same security forces that failed to protect them in the first place.
“The same security agencies that failed to prevent or investigate this tragedy were quick to tear gas peaceful protesters demanding accountability for their safety. This is unacceptable,” he said.
He also noted that the Tinubu-led administration has not properly diagnosed the true nature of the security problem in Nigeria. According to him, the key figures in charge of the nation’s security are more focused on political achievements than addressing violence and insecurity.
“When you misdiagnose a problem, the solution will inevitably be flawed; garbage in, garbage out. Look at the individuals heading the security portfolios: they’re politicians, not experts. They’re focused on political gains rather than the demands of their roles,” he stated.
Ibe further criticised the lack of inclusion in Tinubu’s government, saying the exclusion of certain ethnic and religious groups has worsened the level of unrest and distrust in the country.
“Inclusiveness is a tool for national unity and stability. When you dismiss or alienate people, they will inevitably create chaos,” he said.
He also noted that the government seems more focused on the 2027 elections than on addressing the major problems Nigerians are currently facing. This, he said, is one reason the situation continues to worsen with little or no progress.
“The focus on 2027 is distracting from pressing issues, leaving problems unaddressed and insecurity rampant. There’s nothing new this administration has introduced to tackle these challenges,” Ibe added.
