Group Knocks Atiku, Says Ex-VP Misreads Nigeria’s Political Climate

JOEL OLADELE, Abuja

The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has criticised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, describing his recent comments on national policies as evidence that he is disconnected from current political and economic realities in Nigeria.

The group’s reaction followed a television interview in which Atiku said he would reverse policies introduced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu if elected in 2027.

In a statement jointly signed by its Chairman, Emeka Nwankpa, and Secretary, Dapo Okubanjo, the group questioned the practicality of such a position, noting that several of the reforms targeted by the former vice president had already begun to yield results.

The group argued that reversing key decisions such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of the foreign exchange system would amount to taking the country backward. “It beggars belief to hear him vow to reverse all policies of President Tinubu’s administration,” the statement said.

TMSG maintained that recent reforms had attracted positive reviews from international financial institutions, pointing to what it described as improved economic indicators and growing investor confidence.

It further cited ongoing interventions in education, including the student loan scheme, as well as reforms in the university system and wage structure for lecturers, as examples of policies with tangible impact.

The group also referenced social and economic programmes such as consumer credit initiatives, which it said were expanding access to essential goods for Nigerians without immediate cash payments.

According to the statement, Atiku’s remarks raised questions about whether he would also roll back policies he once supported, including subsidy removal and foreign exchange reforms, which featured prominently in his previous campaign promises.

The group said it was concerned that a politician with extensive public service experience could dismiss what it described as “purposeful structures” being implemented across sectors.

It also took a swipe at the former vice president’s past political outings, suggesting that his criticisms of successive administrations had followed a consistent pattern. “It is not surprising that he has not seen anything good in the Tinubu administration,” the group said, recalling similar remarks made about past governments.

TMSG concluded by urging Nigerians to remain cautious about proposals that could reverse ongoing reforms, warning that policy inconsistency could undermine recent gains.