Presidency Blasts Atiku Over U.S. Lobbying, Says Tinubu Unmoved by ‘Political Theatrics’

The Presidency has launched a scathing attack on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, accusing him of undermining Nigeria’s sovereignty by allegedly lobbying the United States over President Bola Tinubu’s past civil forfeiture case.

In a statement issued on Thursday, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, questioned Atiku’s decision to petition U.S. President Donald Trump and members of the U.S. Congress over the decades-old matter, describing the move as unbecoming of a statesman.

According to the Presidency, the 1993 civil forfeiture case had long been resolved in the United States without any criminal conviction against Tinubu and had also been settled politically through the 2023 presidential election and subsequent Supreme Court judgment.

“It is important to remind Atiku and his associates that Nigeria is a sovereign nation, not a satellite of any foreign power. Reporting the President of Nigeria to another country’s leader is not only inappropriate but also undermines the nation’s dignity and independence,” the statement said.

The Presidency alleged that Atiku had spent about $1.2 million on American lobbyists to revive issues it described as “discredited” ahead of the 2027 general election.

Onanuga also challenged the former vice president to explain his own legal history in the United States, referring to the William Jefferson bribery scandal and a 2010 U.S. Senate report that examined alleged financial transactions involving Atiku and his former wife, Jennifer Douglas.

The statement further accused Atiku of seeking the presidency for personal reasons, claiming his ambition was driven by a desire to obtain diplomatic immunity and avoid potential legal issues abroad.

The Presidency also revisited Atiku’s role during the privatisation programme under the Olusegun Obasanjo administration, alleging that national assets were sold to associates at undervalued prices, resulting in job losses and unpaid salaries and pensions.

It argued that rather than offering policy alternatives to address Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, the former vice president had chosen “media theatrics and lobbying in Washington.”

According to the Presidency, President Tinubu remains focused on implementing his Renewed Hope Agenda, improving the economy, attracting investments and strengthening national security despite criticism from political opponents.

The statement concluded that the President would not be distracted by what it described as Atiku’s “political theatrics” ahead of the 2027 elections.

Editor’s Note: The Presidency’s statement contains allegations and political claims against former Vice President Atiku Abubakar. As of the time of filing this report, Atiku had not publicly responded to the latest accusations. His response should be sought to provide balance in line with journalistic standards.