Atiku Laments Governance Failures, Urges Nigerians to Exercise Electoral Power

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has expressed deep concern over the state of Nigeria as the country marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.

In a statement shared on social media, Atiku described the current situation as “tragic,” highlighting widespread hunger, insecurity, and the plight of millions of Nigerians displaced within their own country.

“Atiku noted that in a nation blessed with immense human and material resources, millions have been reduced to refugees and beggars in their fatherland,” the statement read.

He criticised the current administration, saying it has “abandoned its people,” leaving citizens vulnerable to starvation and violence from bandits and armed groups.

The former presidential candidate emphasised the power of democracy, reminding Nigerians that the ballot box remains a tool for change.

“Oppressed and battered as our people may feel today, they will have the chance to sweep away this inept government at the next polls. That is the power no cabal can take away from the people,” he said.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s 65-year journey, Atiku described the country as a “giant moving painfully slow on feet of clay,” attributing the nation’s slow progress to decades of poor leadership and mismanagement.

He nevertheless expressed optimism that with responsible governance, Nigeria could recover and reclaim its position among the leading nations of the world.

Concluding his message, Atiku extended Independence Day greetings to all Nigerians, wishing them a day of reflection and celebration despite the challenges.