President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has blamed opposition politicians for the hunger and poverty facing Nigerians, sparking a sharp response from former Vice President Atiku Abubakar.
Tinubu made the remarks on Saturday, October 24, 2026, during the All Progressives Congress (APC) presidential campaign flag-off at Ranchers Bees Stadium in Kaduna State.
The event marked the formal launch of his campaign ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
Tinubu Accuses Opposition of Creating Hardship
Speaking at the rally, Tinubu argued that opposition politicians were responsible for the hunger and poverty they now criticise his administration over.
The President maintained that his government was working to address these challenges and promised Nigerians prosperity, economic recovery and development if re-elected.
His comments come amid widespread public concerns about rising living costs, food prices and economic hardship across the country.
The administration has defended its economic reforms, including the removal of the petrol subsidy, as necessary steps towards improving Nigeria's economy.
Atiku Fires Back at Tinubu
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar strongly criticised the President's remarks.
Atiku, who is associated with the African Democratic Congress (ADC), accused Tinubu of shifting responsibility for the country's economic difficulties onto political opponents.
According to Channels Television, Atiku argued that the administration should take responsibility for its economic policies and the hardship Nigerians are experiencing.
He also maintained that the economic challenges did not begin when opposition politicians started criticising the government.
Economic Hardship Becomes a Major Political Issue
The exchange highlights how hunger, poverty and the rising cost of living are likely to feature prominently in political debates ahead of the 2027 general election.
While Tinubu has defended his administration's reforms and promised continued economic recovery, opposition figures have questioned whether the policies are improving the lives of ordinary Nigerians.
The debate is expected to continue as political parties seek public support ahead of the election.
Tinubu's remarks in Kaduna and Atiku's response have triggered another political debate over who should take responsibility for Nigeria's economic challenges.
As the 2027 election approaches, Nigerians will be watching closely for practical solutions to rising living costs, unemployment and poverty.
Source: Channels Television, Premium Times and ARISE News.
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