The importance of political power in Nigerian society cannot be underestimated. With the 2023 presidential election that saw Tinubu prevail over Atiku, much attention is being paid to the criticism and debate surrounding current and proposed economic policies. Atiku has been highly critical of the current administration’s approach, calling it “trial and error” and “palliative economics.” According to him, implementing multiple reforms such as exchange rate adjustments, electricity tariffs and petrol prices simultaneously would be excessive and potentially harmful. In response, President Tinubu’s Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, dismissed Atiku’s ideas as lacking in details and rejected by Nigerians in the 2023 elections. He also warned that the Atiku-led administration could lead Nigeria into a worse situation or foster nepotism.
The controversy intensified with remarks by Dada Olusegun, a Special Adviser to the President on social media, who dismissed Atiku’s criticism by saying: “You were not elected, Alhaji. You cannot even unite your party with only 13 governors. You cannot provide adequate leadership to be considered a serious opposition.”
Behind the scenes, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) is facing a national crisis, often attributed to the rift between Atiku Abubakar and former Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wike. This fracture appears to weaken the party’s position and raises questions about its ability to offer a credible alternative.
In this tense political context, the future of Nigeria and its governance remains uncertain. Citizens and observers alike are wondering what path will be taken to address the economic, social and political challenges facing the country. The next decisions and actions of political leaders will have a crucial impact on the destiny of the nation and the daily lives of millions of Nigerians. It is therefore imperative that political leaders demonstrate wisdom, vision and responsibility in the management of public affairs, for the well-being of all.