Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly challenged President Bola Tinubu to prove his loyalty to Nigeria by ending foreign medical trips and replacing his luxury foreign cars with Nigerian-made vehicles.
In a statement released by his Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku accused the Tinubu administration of hypocrisy. He said that while the government is promoting a “Nigeria First” agenda, its top officials continue to enjoy foreign luxuries at the expense of the struggling masses.
Atiku dares Tinubu to start leading by example by dumping his foreign-made Escalade for a car made in Nigeria, such as Innoson or Nord. “That single act will do more to promote local industry than a thousand policy memos,” Atiku said.
He didn’t stop there. The former vice president also took a swipe at ministers who drive luxury brands like Rolls Royce, calling them out for not supporting Nigerian products.
Read Also: EFCC Arrests Former Lawmaker Gudaji Kazaure Over Alleged N70 Million Payment from Emefiele
“If the President truly believes in Nigeria First, he should stop flying abroad for medical care,” Atiku added. “There are excellent hospitals in Nigeria, like LUTH, UCH, National Hospital Abuja, and the world-class Akwa Ibom hospital. If they’re good enough for the rest of us, they should be good enough for the President too.”
Atiku further mocked Tinubu’s frequent visits to London and Paris, suggesting he vacation at home instead — in places like Obudu Cattle Ranch or Yankari Game Reserve.
Atiku dares Tinubu again to abandon what he described as a “love affair with foreign comfort” and instead set an example for others to follow. According to him, leadership is not about fancy speeches or media appearances but about actions that show real commitment.
He concluded by saying that the Tinubu-led government has lost the trust of the people by asking them to tighten their belts while living in luxury.
“You can’t keep preaching sacrifice while living the exact opposite. Nigerians are watching,” Atiku warned.
The call from Atiku comes at a time when public confidence in the government’s economic and healthcare policies is being tested. By putting the spotlight on the President’s personal choices, Atiku dares Tinubu to match his words with actions in a way that could reshape public perception.
