The Presidency Reacts to Unfounded Allegations by Atiku Abubakar
By Salif Atojoko
The presidency has responded to allegations made by former Vice President Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, claiming to be the subject of an EFCC investigation regarding unsubstantiated financial dealings involving Lagos State.
False and Unsubstantiated Claims
"These claims, circulated through his media office, are false and reflect a troubling pattern of relying on social media gossip over substance," said Mr. Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President, Information and Strategy. "It is disheartening that a politician of Atiku’s stature would lend credibility to baseless social media speculation to remain politically relevant."
President’s Focus on National Challenges
Onanuga emphasized that President Bola Tinubu remained focused on addressing critical national challenges and advancing his administration’s agenda for Nigeria’s growth and stability. "The president has neither the time nor the inclination to engage in petty political distractions," he added.
Atiku’s Allegations: Infantile and Transparent Ploy
"Atiku’s allegations are infantile and a transparent ploy to deflect from his political setbacks," Onanuga said. "His repeated attempts to drag the presidency and now the Lagos State government into fabricated controversies reveal a desperate bid for attention amid his fading attempt to cobble a coalition."
Falling Short of Dignified Role
Onanuga stated that since his defeat in the 2023 presidential election, the former vice president had failed to rise to the dignified role of an elder statesman. "Rather than contributing constructively to the national discourse, he had chosen the path of divisive rhetoric and unfounded accusations," he said.
Urging Atiku to Redirect Energy
"We urge Atiku Abubakar to redirect his energy toward initiatives that foster unity, economic progress, and democratic stability – qualities Nigeria urgently needs," Onanuga said. "Lastly, the former vice president should know that the EFCC, as an independent institution, operates within its statutory mandate without external influence."
Conclusion
The presidency remains committed to transparency, accountability, and the pursuit of national development – priorities that demand our undivided attention.
FAQs
- What allegations were made by Atiku Abubakar?
Atiku Abubakar claimed to be the subject of an EFCC investigation regarding unsubstantiated financial dealings involving Lagos State. - How did the presidency respond to these allegations?
The presidency described the allegations as false and reflective of a pattern of relying on social media gossip over substance. - What is the focus of President Bola Tinubu?
President Tinubu remains focused on addressing critical national challenges and advancing his administration’s agenda for Nigeria’s growth and stability. - What is the role of the EFCC in this matter?
The EFCC operates independently within its statutory mandate without external influence. Any insinuation otherwise is a disservice to the agency’s professionalism and the rule of law.
