Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the Presidency for comparing Nigeria’s political situation with China’s legal and governance system, arguing that the comparison exposes what he described as the Tinubu administration’s failures in accountability and governance.
In a statement issued through his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku described the Presidency’s argument as a “monumental own goal”, saying it had unintentionally invited Nigerians to measure the current administration against China’s strict standards on corruption, public accountability and the rule of law.
According to Atiku, if China is to be used as a benchmark, Nigerians are entitled to ask how Chinese authorities would respond to issues such as allegations surrounding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s 1993 civil forfeiture case in the United States, controversies over the 2026 national budget, and the recent scandal involving the alleged establishment of a fake government agency. He also criticised the administration over worsening economic hardship, arguing that the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda has instead delivered increasing hardship for many Nigerians.
The former vice president maintained that he has never been convicted or indicted by any court in Nigeria or abroad for corruption, drug-related offences or any other criminal offence. He accused the Presidency of responding to legitimate public concerns with political attacks rather than providing substantive answers to the issues raised.
Atiku further argued that diplomatic correspondence between the Nigerian and United States governments should not be interpreted as a judicial ruling or proof of innocence, insisting that only a competent court can determine legal liability. He urged the Tinubu administration to focus on addressing Nigeria’s economic and security challenges instead of engaging in political exchanges with opposition figures.
The latest exchange is part of an ongoing war of words between the Presidency and Atiku over lobbying efforts in the United States and allegations relating to President Tinubu’s past. It comes as political activity continues to intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
