Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on opposition leaders to unite in order to rescue Nigerians from the grip of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s “reckless and failing government.”
Atiku made the call on Monday, September 8, 2025, during a visit to the Abuja residence of former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami (SAN), where he went to commiserate with him following a violent attack allegedly carried out by APC-sponsored thugs in Kebbi State.
Speaking after the visit, Atiku lamented the deteriorating state of the nation, citing rising insecurity in the North, skyrocketing inflation, and deepening poverty across the country.
“The situation in Nigeria today is dire. In the North, insecurity has reached unbearable levels, leaving families in constant fear. Everywhere, Nigerians are groaning under the weight of hunger, inflation, and poverty. People can barely afford food, fuel, or shelter. This government has recklessly abandoned its people,” Atiku declared.
The former Vice President further condemned recent attacks on opposition figures, including the assault on Malami’s convoy in Kebbi, the disruption of an ADC coalition meeting in Kaduna, and the violent targeting of Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour in Lagos.
“These violent attacks are proof that the APC is desperate to silence dissent. When thuggery replaces dialogue, when violence replaces governance, democracy itself is in danger,” he warned.
Atiku then issued a rallying call to opposition leaders nationwide: “We cannot afford to remain divided. Nigerians are waiting for us to unite and offer them hope again. A united opposition is the only way to save this country from hunger, insecurity, and despair. Unity is not just a political option—it is a moral duty to our suffering people.”
Malami, in his remarks, praised Atiku for his visit and his courage in speaking out. “This call for unity is timely and necessary. Nigerians want peace, justice, and security, not violence and intimidation. What Atiku has said today speaks to the conscience of our nation,” Malami stated.
Political analysts say Atiku’s comments signal the beginning of a major push for opposition realignment ahead of the 2027 elections, with many Nigerians already yearning for change.