Atiku Abubakar Critiques Tinubu's Economic Policies Amid Poverty Rise

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar expressed concerns regarding the rising poverty levels in Nigeria, which the World Bank reported to be at 63%. He made these remarks in a statement issued in Abuja by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Frank Shaibu.

Atiku criticized President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, warning that they could worsen hardships across the country. He noted that 60% of Nigerians now live below the poverty line, a significant increase from 40% just a few years ago.

Atiku attributed this rise to poorly conceived and harshly implemented policies, including the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies and chaotic naira devaluation. He emphasized the need for carefully sequenced reforms that strengthen social protection measures, focus on job creation, and improve food security.

The World Bank's report highlighted a troubling paradox of rising poverty amid supposed reforms, underscoring the disconnect between government actions and the lived realities of citizens.