Atiku, who is contesting the 2027 presidential election on the platform of the African Democratic Congress, ADC, accused the Tinubu administration of prioritising its image over the safety of Nigerians.
In a post shared on his official X handle on Thursday, the former Vice President reacted to a trending photo of security guards stationed to protect President Tinubu’s billboards in Kaduna State.
He said it was tragic that while the President’s posters enjoy round-the-clock protection, millions of Nigerians are left at the mercy of bandits and terrorists.
“Bola, you claim Nigerians love you, yet your billboards in Kaduna require security guards. Bandits raid villages, terrorists attack communities, and families live in fear. Your posters enjoy protection that millions of Nigerians can only dream of. What a tragic statement of your government’s priorities. Bola, please protect Nigerians with the same urgency you protect your image!” Atiku wrote.
The statement has since generated mixed reactions on social media, with many Nigerians expressing concern over the growing insecurity in the North-West and other parts of the country.
Kaduna State, where the billboards were reportedly mounted, has witnessed series of bandit attacks in recent months, with several communities displaced and residents forced to pay levies to criminal groups.
Atiku, who recently defected to the ADC, has been vocal in his criticism of the current administration’s handling of security, economy and governance.
As of the time of filing this report, the Presidency is yet to respond to Atiku’s remarks.
