Atiku Abubakar Challenges Tinubu on $20bn Chagoury Deals

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address "disturbing questions" raised by The Economist about $20 billion in projects associated with Gilbert Chagoury, a close associate of the President. In a statement released on Monday through his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku expressed that the report has escalated concerns regarding the Tinubu administration’s procurement practices into an "international credibility crisis." He emphasized that $20 billion, approximately ₦27 trillion, is a significant amount that should not be concentrated in the hands of one individual.

Atiku demanded clarity on the awarding of these contracts, their competitive tendering, tax concessions, and the ultimate beneficial owners. He criticized the administration for undermining public trust while Nigerians face economic hardships, urging the Presidency to disclose full details of the procurement processes related to the projects mentioned by The Economist.