“Is It Working Today?” — Tinubu Takes Swipe at Atiku’s Privatization Legacy

Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken a fresh swipe at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, questioning his record on privatization and criticizing his political maneuvers.

Speaking in a remark that has since stirred political reactions, Tinubu described Atiku as the “head of the calabash,” a phrase often used to depict a leading figure within a coalition. He used the comment to cast doubt on Atiku’s past role as chairman of Nigeria’s privatization council, particularly pointing to the steel industry.

The president questioned the outcome of the privatization exercise, asking whether the sector is functioning effectively today, in what observers see as a direct critique of Atiku’s economic legacy.

Tinubu did not stop at economic issues. He also took aim at Atiku’s political history, alleging that the former vice president attempted to “privatize another man’s political party,” but was resisted. Though he did not mention specifics, the comment is widely interpreted as a reference to past internal party struggles involving Atiku.

The exchange highlights the deepening rivalry between the two political heavyweights, as alignments and coalition talks continue to shape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of future elections.

Political analysts say Tinubu’s remarks are part of a broader effort to challenge Atiku’s credibility on governance and reform, while reinforcing his own administration’s stance on economic management and political leadership.

“Is It Working Today?” — Tinubu Takes Swipe at Atiku’s Privatization Legacy

Amaechi Rejects Consensus Candidate, Demands Transparent ADC Primaries

Former Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi, has called for a transparent and credible primary election within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), warning against any attempt to impose a consensus presidential candidate ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Amaechi, a former governor of Rivers State, stressed that democratic principles must be upheld within the party, insisting that members should be allowed to freely choose their flag bearer through a fair voting process. He rejected the idea of backroom agreements, saying party leadership must emerge through due process.

On the possibility of Atiku Abubakar emerging as the party’s presidential candidate, Amaechi said he would support the former vice president if he secures victory in a transparent primary. However, he maintained that no aspirant should be handed the ticket without undergoing a credible contest.

He described Atiku as qualified to contest for the presidency, noting that every Nigerian has the constitutional right to seek the country’s highest office, regardless of ongoing debates over zoning and power rotation.

Amaechi dismissed arguments centred on North–South power rotation, arguing that competence and capacity should take precedence over regional considerations. According to him, Nigeria requires a leader with the energy, strength, and responsiveness needed to confront the country’s mounting challenges.

Drawing comparisons with global political trends, he pointed to the emergence of younger leaders in other parts of the world, emphasizing that effective leadership demands alertness and the ability to respond swiftly to national issues.

He added that the presidency requires someone who can actively engage citizens, understand their problems firsthand, and work consistently toward practical solutions.

The former minister also cautioned Nigerians against voting along religious or ethnic lines, blaming such considerations for the country’s current difficulties. He argued that economic realities cut across all divides, affecting citizens irrespective of faith or background.

Amaechi further criticised the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying economic hardship has worsened nationwide. He noted that rising costs of fuel, transportation, and basic commodities have left many Nigerians struggling to meet daily needs.

“Today, they have discovered that the market does not know Christians or Muslims. The market does not know that. The market understands just one language, Naira and Kobo. It doesn’t understand any other language. Now, everybody is suffering. Everybody is looking for food to eat,” he said.

He concluded that leadership at all levels should prioritise economic recovery and citizens’ welfare over identity politics, urging political actors to focus on policies that directly improve living conditions across the country.

Amaechi Rejects Consensus Candidate, Demands Transparent ADC Primaries

Tinubu Mocks Atiku, Obi, Aregbesola, Says They Need ‘Jigi-Bola Glasses’ to See APC Achievements

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken a swipe at opposition figures aligned with the African Democratic Congress, saying they need “Jigi-Bola eyeglasses” to see what he described as the achievements of his administration.

Tinubu made the remark on Thursday at the State House while receiving a delegation of the Renewed Hope Ambassadors led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma.

“If they don’t want to see the hope and the roads and bridges, and the children we are raising, the economy we are growing, we shall lend them Jigi-Bola eyeglasses,” the President said, defending his government’s performance.

The comment comes amid escalating political exchanges between the Presidency and key opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola, who are now prominent voices within the ADC coalition.

Tinubu reiterated his commitment to sustaining reforms under his Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly those aimed at improving economic opportunities for vulnerable Nigerians. He argued that ongoing policies are designed to stabilise the economy and drive long-term growth.

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However, opposition leaders have sharply criticised the administration.

Aregbesola recently described Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda as a “scam,” intensifying tensions within Nigeria’s political space.

Atiku Abubakar, on his part, vowed to reverse all policies introduced by the Tinubu administration if elected president in 2027, stating that the current government represents “the worst administration” he has witnessed.

Similarly, Peter Obi criticised the government’s economic management, citing rising poverty levels and increasing national debt. According to him, key economic indicators have worsened, warning that the country risks deeper crisis without urgent reforms.

Obi also raised concerns about national unity, arguing that divisions have widened under the current administration and calling for collective efforts to rebuild cohesion.

The exchange highlights growing political realignments ahead of the 2027 general elections, with opposition leaders ramping up criticism while the Presidency continues to defend its policies and achievements.

Tinubu Mocks Atiku, Obi, Aregbesola, Says They Need ‘Jigi-Bola Glasses’ to See APC Achievements