Atiku
Former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over the lingering crisis involving the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
Atiku accused the Federal Government of failing to fulfil its promise that savings from the removal of fuel subsidy would be channelled into improving education and providing relief for Nigerians.
In a statement issued by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, on Sunday, Atiku described the situation as one of the most cynical economic deceptions in Nigeria’s recent history.
He said the removal of fuel subsidy had increased hardship for millions of Nigerians, while the government had allegedly failed to address critical challenges facing the country’s public universities.
According to him, ASUU’s renewed threat of industrial action highlights concerns over unresolved agreements and alleged unpaid salaries.
“At a time when families are struggling with rising food prices, transportation costs and energy bills, the government has largely left Nigerians to bear the consequences of its economic policies,” Atiku said.
He questioned the justification for the continued hardship, arguing that Nigerians have yet to see corresponding improvements in education, healthcare and other essential services.
Atiku further said university infrastructure remains inadequate, while millions of young Nigerians continue to compete for limited admission spaces annually.
He questioned where the savings from the subsidy removal had gone, given the continued challenges confronting the education sector.
The ADC candidate maintained that a government asking citizens to make sacrifices should also demonstrate tangible results from its economic policies.
The Federal Government has consistently defended its economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidy, as necessary measures aimed at addressing long-standing fiscal challenges and creating a more sustainable economy.
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Samuel Agada is a writer and media contributor from Olamaboro Local Government Area of Kogi State, Nigeria. He is a graduate of Biochemistry from the University of Jos and a former banker with GTBank and FCMB. A prolific writer, songwriter, educator, and Gospel preacher, he is passionate about informing, inspiring, and impacting society through his work.