Atiku Abubakar has criticised Bola Tinubu over his remarks that rising insecurity will not force him out of office.
The president had earlier insisted he would seek re-election despite the security challenges, stating: “You are playing into the hands of agents, including my own enemies, who want to use insecurity to get rid of me. I’m a very stubborn politician. I just refuse to go. And I will campaign for my second term.”
Responding through his aide, Atiku described the comments as troubling, stressing that governance should be driven by responsibility and action, not defiance.
He accused the administration of failing in its core duty to protect lives and property.
“It is not political opponents who will judge this administration; it is the blood of innocent Nigerians being shed daily across our land. That blood cries out louder than any declaration of political resolve,” he said.
Atiku also faulted the government’s handling of recent attacks, including the incident in Ekiti, saying it was “horrifying” that such tragedies are reduced to political rhetoric.
“It is disturbing that such a heinous incident has yet to attract the empathy or acknowledgment it deserves from the highest levels of government, while the loss of lives is instead framed as a political game,” he added.
He further linked worsening insecurity with declining public trust, rising cost of living, and what he described as “reckless fiscal policies,” insisting that leadership must be judged by results.
“No amount of deflection or intimidation can rewrite the lived reality of Nigerians. Ultimately, the people will decide, and they will do so based on the evidence before them,” he said.
“At a time like this, Nigerians do not need bravado; they need protection. They do not need declarations of staying power; they need proof of leadership.”