Dare Babalola
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has delivered a scathing critique of the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, led by President Bola Tinubu, describing 2025 as “one of the most punishing years” in Nigeria’s recent history.
In his New Year message on Wednesday, Atiku lamented the economic hardship, insecurity, and “governance without empathy” under the APC, urging Nigerians to remain steadfast and united in the face of these challenges.
“I urge Nigerians to remain steadfast in the face of these hardships. This is one of the most painful New Year messages I have ever written, fully aware of the despair confronting millions due to the callous and soulless policies of the Tinubu-led APC government,” Atiku stated.
Atiku specifically pointed out the administration’s reliance on propaganda, reckless borrowing, and the scandal of a forged tax law, which he described as a “criminal act”.
He noted that the government’s actions have weakened Nigeria’s democratic foundations, with the APC working to deform the multiparty democracy into a de facto one-party state.
The former Vice President expressed disappointment with the administration’s claims of economic recovery, citing widespread unemployment, underemployment, labour unrest, and collapsing small businesses.
He also highlighted the surge in insecurity, with kidnappings, abductions, and violent crimes affecting citizens.
Atiku emphasised that the government’s policies have normalised suffering, with citizens bearing the brunt of the hardship. He criticized the administration’s prioritisation of comfort over conscience, noting that small businesses, the backbone of job creation, are collapsing, and workers are losing jobs.
The statement urged Nigerians not to surrender to despair, emphasising that democracy gives the people the power to change a failing government through the ballot.
Atiku called for unity, warning against division, and urged citizens to prepare to vote and defend their votes in 2027.
Atiku also slammed the government’s “anti-corruption crusade” as a façade, selective, and politically motivated, with agencies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) being weaponised against opponents.
He emphasised the need for institutions to act without fear or favour.
The statement concluded with a call to action, urging Nigerians to engage, mobilise, and organise to reclaim their country.
“2026 is the year to till the soil. 2027 is the year of harvest,” Atiku said, emphasising the need for collective action to address the country’s challenges.
The APC administration has been under fire for its handling of the economy, insecurity, and governance, with many Nigerians calling for change.
