Atiku and Tinubu Clash Over Nigeria's Privatization Policy

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu sparked a debate over Nigeria's privatization policy. Atiku, representing the African Democratic Congress, responded to Tinubu's criticisms regarding his role in privatization exercises during his tenure.

He dismissed Tinubu's understanding of privatization principles and accused him of hypocrisy and historical distortion. Atiku emphasized his advocacy for privatization, particularly concerning the Nigerian National Petroleum Company (NNPC) and its refineries, while criticizing the current administration's approach to commercializing state-owned enterprises without transparency.

He referenced successful privatization programs he supervised, including Oando PLC and Indorama, as evidence of effective economic reform. Atiku's camp also criticized Tinubu's remarks as reckless and indicative of a troubling pattern of historical amnesia.

The debate reflects ongoing tensions between the two political figures as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.