Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has openly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue State, branding it a carefully choreographed political performance rather than a genuine act of national leadership. Atiku’s Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, made the remarks during an interview in Abuja on Thursday, stating that the president’s trip was “more about optics than substance.”
According to Ibe, President Tinubu’s visit failed to reflect the seriousness of the crisis engulfing the Middle Belt state, particularly the recurring violence, loss of lives, and the humanitarian catastrophe faced by internally displaced persons. He said, “It’s commendable when a leader empathises with the people, but Tinubu’s visit was marred by political theatrics. Children were lined up in the rain, waving at the president—this showmanship is uncalled for in the face of a humanitarian tragedy.”
The former Vice President’s camp also lamented the absence of firm federal commitments to address the core issues plaguing the state, such as insecurity, poor relief for victims, and the lack of a long-term resettlement plan for displaced persons.
No Arrests Despite Massacres – Atiku’s Camp Decries Insecurity
Atiku’s spokesperson further condemned the government’s inaction over a spate of deadly attacks that have claimed over 200 lives in Benue in recent months. He pointed out the stark contradiction between the state’s suffering and the federal government’s priorities, highlighting that no suspects have been arrested, and no justice has been delivered to victims’ families.
“The same security agencies that failed to prevent the killings or apprehend the culprits were quick to tear gas peaceful protesters who demanded safety and justice,” Ibe said. “That double standard speaks volumes about the government’s misplaced priorities.”
He also questioned the competence of those appointed to head critical security agencies under the Tinubu administration, arguing that many were chosen based on political affiliations rather than expertise. “When politicians are placed in security positions, they will serve political ends, not national interest,” Ibe stated.
Tinubu’s Governance Model Is Flawed – Atiku’s Broader Critique
Atiku’s team didn’t limit their criticisms to the Benue visit alone. They argued that the president’s approach to governance is fundamentally flawed due to a misunderstanding of Nigeria’s security architecture. According to Ibe, “You cannot solve a problem you have misdiagnosed. Garbage in, garbage out.”
He noted that insecurity has worsened under the current administration, and the lack of inclusive governance is fueling further instability. “Inclusiveness is not charity—it is a necessity for national stability. When you marginalise entire regions, faiths, and ethnicities, the result is always conflict,” Ibe warned.
Furthermore, he accused the administration of prioritizing early political calculations for the 2027 general elections instead of addressing the immediate needs of the country. “Nigerians are tired of empty symbolism. What’s needed now are innovative, practical solutions to our challenges,” he added.
Political Reactions and APC’s Defense of Tinubu
President Tinubu’s visit to Benue has provoked a wave of political reactions. The All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed Atiku’s comments as an attempt to remain politically relevant. In a statement, APC’s National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, described the criticisms as “predictable and baseless attacks from an opposition that has nothing new to offer.”
Morka argued that Tinubu’s visit was an embodiment of responsive leadership and a genuine step toward reconciliation and unity. He stated that the Renewed Hope Agenda has provisions for comprehensive security reform and infrastructural development in Benue and the wider Middle Belt region.
“Unlike Atiku, President Tinubu is not an armchair critic. He engages directly with citizens, listens to their needs, and takes bold actions,” Morka asserted.
Civil Society Calls for Focus on the People, Not Politics
Amid the political crossfire, civil society groups and local community leaders have urged both camps to deescalate the rhetoric and instead focus on alleviating the plight of Benue’s displaced and traumatised residents. Groups such as the Middle Belt Peace Initiative and the Network for Democratic Development called for increased federal action, not partisan bickering.
Security analysts also weighed in, emphasizing the urgency of establishing a joint federal-state security task force, rebuilding destroyed communities, and providing psychological support for victims. “What Benue needs is healing, not hype,” said Dr. Francis Adoga, a conflict resolution expert.
Atiku, meanwhile, insisted that opposition voices must remain vigilant and vocal in holding the government accountable. “We must not allow theatrics to substitute for real governance. Nigeria’s democracy must be rooted in action, not in applause,” he said.
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