Atiku Abubakar Criticizes President Tinubu’s Administration for Trampling Workers’ Rights

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu, stating that Nigerian workers have faced significant challenges under his leadership.

Atiku asserted that no administration in Nigeria’s history has undermined workers’ rights like the current one, emphasizing the daily uncertainties faced by workers due to skyrocketing prices of essential goods.

In a statement posted on his social media handle on Wednesday, the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate highlighted the unfortunate living conditions of Nigerian workers, contrasting them with the government’s claims of weaning the masses off dependence on government.

Atiku’s statement coincided with the celebration of International Workers’ Day, where he acknowledged the dire situation of Nigerian workers.

He expressed disappointment over the government’s failure to fulfill promises of wage increments, noting that hardships and harsh living conditions persist.

Atiku criticized the government’s handling of the subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), stating that despite its purported removal, the impact lingers, revealing the ineptitude of the current federal government.

He condemned the unilateral removal of the subsidy without consultations with representatives of the Nigerian worker, describing it as unprecedented and condescending.

The former vice president also highlighted the continuous increase in tariffs without addressing corruption and inefficiencies in the system, which he believes amounts to Nigerians subsidizing corruption and inefficiencies in the system.

Atiku praised the resilience of Nigerian workers in the face of adversity, citing historical figures like Pa. Michael Imoudu, Pascal Bafyau, and Comrade Adams Oshiomhole, who have fought against tyranny and bad governance.

He expressed sympathy for the plight of the Nigerian worker under the current administration, urging the government to prioritize workers’ concerns.

He concluded by expressing hope that the theme of this year’s Labour Day, “Ensuring Safety and Health at Work In a Changing Climate,” will inspire the Nigerian government to address the challenges faced by workers.