President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other past government officials of contributing to Nigeria’s current economic difficulties, insisting that his administration is working to correct the problems they left behind.
Tinubu made the allegation on Saturday during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential rally held at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State.
The President, who was responding to criticisms over the prevailing hunger and economic hardship in the country, accused Atiku, his political rival in the African Democratic Congress (ADC), of benefiting personally from public resources while serving as Vice President.
He particularly questioned the circumstances surrounding the establishment of Atiku’s private university, alleging that public funds were used for the project.
“Those people talking of hunger, I am cleaning the mess they created. Atiku was one of them. Ask him how he built a university while in office as Vice President in charge of our economy. Who built the university for him? It is your money!” Tinubu declared.
The President maintained that his administration was confronting economic challenges inherited from previous governments, despite mounting criticism from opposition figures over the rising cost of living.
Tinubu also used the occasion to commend Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for his political decisions and support for the APC ahead of the 2027 general election.
He assured the governor that he would not regret his decision to align with the ruling party and its political coalition.
Reflecting on the prolonged political crisis that engulfed Rivers State, Tinubu recalled his intervention in the dispute and praised Fubara for demonstrating maturity and respect for political elders.
“Fubara, you will not regret what you have done. During the crisis created by misunderstanding in the family, for me, I intervened on your behalf.
“I want to thank you specifically for maturity, respect for elders. You respect our positions, you are a committed democrat, you will not regret your actions,” the President said.
Tinubu’s remarks followed Fubara’s public declaration of support for his re-election bid, during which the governor pledged to mobilise three million votes for the President in Rivers State during the 2027 presidential election.
The governor’s endorsement marked a significant political development in Rivers State, which has witnessed prolonged internal political disagreements and shifting alliances.
The rally attracted APC governors, party leaders, political stakeholders and thousands of supporters, as the ruling party intensified its political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general election.
