Atiku Abubakar Warns of Nigeria's Internal Crisis Ahead of US Visit
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has outlined his agenda for a planned visit to the United States, where he intends to engage with policy and institutional stakeholders on issues of insecurity, governance, and economic stability in Nigeria. Atiku warned that Nigeria is facing a full-blown internal crisis that can no longer be downplayed, politicized, or explained away.
Security and Economic Concerns
The chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) expressed alarm over Nigeria's deteriorating security situation, citing ravaging violence in the North-West and North-East, persistent bloodshed in the Middle Belt, and the growing spread of kidnapping and criminality across the country. He also highlighted severe economic hardship, including rising inflation, a weakened currency, and collapsing purchasing power that have pushed millions into distress.
Criticism of Tinubu's Policies
Atiku criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's policy inconsistency and lack of strategic direction, which he said continue to erode confidence in the economy. He lamented that Nigerians are not just tired but are being stretched to the limits of endurance. Atiku further warned that declining public confidence in governance, accountability, and the electoral process poses a direct threat to national stability.
Patriotism and International Engagement
Addressing anticipated criticism of his international engagement, Atiku stated that telling the truth about Nigeria is not unpatriotic. He rejected the notion that engaging global partners amounts to inviting foreign interference, emphasizing that Nigeria does not exist in isolation and cannot pretend that its internal failures have no external implications. He maintained that the world already sees what is happening, and the real question is whether Nigerian leaders are prepared to confront it honestly.
Previous Criticism and US Invitation
Earlier, Atiku had warned of declining reserves despite Nigeria's surge in oil revenue and called for targeted spending to alleviate hardships. He also urged long-term investments to strengthen the naira and ensure sustainable governance. Meanwhile, reports indicate that Atiku was invited to the US Congress following a high-level telephone discussion with a senior American lawmaker. Atiku accepted the invitation in principle but stated that he would prioritize national engagements in Nigeria before visiting Washington.
