Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has sharply criticized Sunday Dare, the Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Media and Public Communication, over recent remarks made on social media. Atiku accused the Tinubu administration of undermining democratic processes and promoting a “snatch and grab” approach to governance.
Dare had dismissed a recent gathering of opposition figures and members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) as a politically motivated move. He also suggested that Tinubu was unfazed by the opposition’s actions, framing the 2027 elections as a “combat” to be fought.
Atiku, in a statement from his media office, rejected Dare’s criticism, stating that the gathering of political leaders was aimed at fostering democratic ideals, credible elections, and good governance, not destabilizing the government. He condemned the administration’s rhetoric, describing it as an attack on Nigeria’s hard-won democracy and a violation of fundamental human rights.
The PDP presidential candidate further took issue with Dare’s remarks on Nigeria’s international trade relations, accusing the government of making reckless statements that could harm Nigeria’s diplomatic and economic ties. He urged the Tinubu administration to adopt a more inclusive and responsible approach, focusing on unity and responsible leadership to heal the divisions within the country.