Atiku criticises presidency over China and US forfeiture remarks
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has strongly criticised the Presidency for referencing China’s legal system in defence of President Bola Tinubu. Atiku Abubakar argued that the comparison has only intensified scrutiny of the President’s past, particularly regarding allegations of drug-related offences. He also rejected the Presidency’s use of a US government response as proof of Bola Tinubu’s exoneration. The exchange is the latest in an ongoing dispute between the Presidency and the opposition.
What we know
- Atiku Abubakar said the Presidency’s comparison to China’s legal system backfired by drawing more attention to allegations against Bola Tinubu.
- He noted that China imposes harsh penalties for serious drug offences, making the analogy problematic for the Presidency.
- Atiku Abubakar maintained he has never been indicted or convicted of any crime in Nigeria or abroad.
- He criticised the Presidency for using a US diplomatic response as evidence of Bola Tinubu’s innocence, stating it is not the same as a court judgment.
- The dispute was further fuelled by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga’s comments accusing Atiku Abubakar of corruption and claiming he would have faced jail in China.
