Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has condemned President Bola Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue State, describing it as a political drama rather than a genuine show of empathy for victims of violence.
Atiku’s media adviser, Paul Ibe, made this known in Abuja during an interview on Thursday. He said the president’s visit did not bring any meaningful solution to the worsening security crisis in the state.
“It’s good when leaders identify with the people during difficult times. But Tinubu’s visit turned into a political event. Children were made to stand in the rain waving at the president – that was unnecessary and insensitive,” Ibe said.
He criticised the federal government for not arresting anyone over the killings of over 200 people in recent attacks, yet quickly using force against peaceful protesters demanding justice.
“The same security forces that failed to protect lives were quick to tear-gas citizens calling for action,” he added.
Ibe also accused the Tinubu administration of appointing political loyalists instead of professionals to handle Nigeria’s security, claiming this has led to poor responses to insecurity.
“You cannot solve a problem you don’t understand. The government is full of political appointees who lack the expertise to handle national security,” he said.
He further blamed the president for promoting exclusion in governance, saying this has deepened divisions across religious and ethnic lines.
“When you exclude groups from governance, it breeds resentment and fuels instability,” Ibe warned.
He concluded by criticising the administration’s alleged early campaign focus on the 2027 elections while key national problems remain unaddressed.
