Atiku Accuses Tinubu of Avoiding Nigerians Over Second-Term Campaign

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has attacked President Bola Tinubu's approach to campaigning for a second term, arguing that the president is unwilling to face Nigerians directly to defend his record. In a statement released by Phrank Shaibu, the director of strategic communications for the African Democratic Congress presidential campaign council, Atiku contended that Tinubu's reliance on surrogates to campaign on his behalf demonstrates discomfort about his administration's performance.

Atiku's criticism centres on Tinubu's claim that governance demands prevent him from holding campaign rallies across the country. The former vice president rejected this explanation, pointing out that during Tinubu's three and a half years in office, Nigerians have endured significant economic difficulties without receiving the promised relief.

Atiku stated that the president cannot credibly request another four-year mandate while delegating campaign duties to governors, ministers and political defectors. The opposition candidate framed the disagreement as one of accountability and transparency.

He suggested that Tinubu's reduced campaign presence reflects an unwillingness to confront citizens about economic conditions on the ground. Atiku argued that no amount of intermediaries can replace a sitting president's direct engagement with voters about his record and vision.

Atiku is the presidential candidate for the African Democratic Congress party ahead of the 2027 general elections. The statement was issued in October 2026.

The attack represents a continuation of opposition pressure on the administration over economic management during its early years in office.