As Nigeria commemorates 25 years of uninterrupted democracy, former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 election, Atiku Abubakar, has castigated the All Progressives Congress (APC) for the nation’s economic hardships and security challenges.
In a statement released on Tuesday to mark Democracy Day, Atiku Abubakar expressed deep concern over the dire economic situation and escalating insecurity plaguing the country, attributing them to the nine-year tenure of the APC-led administration.
“The past nine years has thrown up a regime of extreme hardship manifested in excruciating poverty and unprecedented levels of violence and insecurity upon our people,” Atiku remarked, squarely placing the blame on the ruling APC.
Atiku lamented the failure of opposition parties to present a united front and form a coalition capable of providing a viable alternative to the ruling party. He criticized the opposition’s inability to articulate a comprehensive governance plan that would inspire confidence among Nigerians.
Reflecting on the significance of June 12 as Democracy Day, Atiku underscored its role in commemorating Nigeria’s journey towards stable democratic governance. He paid tribute to prominent figures in the struggle for democracy, including Basorun MKO Abiola, Alhaja (Mrs) Kudirat Abiola, Tafida Shehu Yar’Adua, and Alfred Rewane, among others.
Atiku commended the uninterrupted season of electoral politics over the past 25 years, acknowledging the collective efforts of the people, political class, and civil society in nurturing democracy. He urged all stakeholders to remain committed to safeguarding the sustainability of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
“The past nine years has thrown up a regime of extreme hardship manifested in excruciating poverty and unprecedented levels of violence and insecurity upon our people. Sadly, the ruling All Progressives Congress is to blame for bringing forth this dawn of gloom.
“While our current democratic dispensation is a quarter of a century old, it will not be out of place to pay tributes to the sacrifices made by many patriots… It is commendable that for 25 years, we have witnessed an uninterrupted season of electoral politics. It is an unprecedented epoch in our history,” he said.
Atiku’s scathing criticism of the APC’s governance and his call for unity and vigilance in safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy underscores the challenges facing the nation as it marks a significant milestone in its democratic journey.
As the nation reflects on its achievements and shortcomings, Atiku’s message serves as a reminder of the pressing need for effective leadership and concerted efforts to address the socio-economic and security concerns confronting Nigeria.