Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over reports that security personnel were deployed to protect his campaign billboards in Kaduna State, questioning the government’s priorities amid persistent insecurity in parts of Nigeria.
Atiku argued that the reported protection of political advertisements contrasted sharply with the security challenges confronting communities affected by banditry, kidnappings and other violent attacks.
In a strongly worded statement, the former vice-president challenged Tinubu’s claim to widespread public support, questioning why resources and personnel would reportedly be assigned to protect campaign billboards while many Nigerians continued to face threats to their lives and property.
“Your posters enjoy protection that millions of Nigerians can only dream of,” Atiku said.
He urged the President to demonstrate the same urgency in protecting citizens that was reportedly being applied to safeguarding his political image.
“Bola, please protect Nigerians with the same urgency you protect your image!” he added.
Atiku’s criticism comes amid continuing concerns over insecurity in northern Nigeria, where armed groups have carried out attacks on rural communities, abducted residents and disrupted livelihoods.
The deployment of security personnel for the protection of public figures, property and other assets can be a legitimate security measure in certain circumstances. However, the reported use of personnel to guard campaign billboards has raised questions in the political exchange about how security resources are prioritised.
The circumstances surrounding the reported deployment, including the identity of the personnel involved and the specific reasons for their presence, were not independently established in the account provided.
Tinubu’s administration has faced sustained scrutiny over its handling of insecurity, with opposition figures demanding stronger action to protect vulnerable communities and improve the safety of roads and public spaces.
Atiku’s remarks add to the broader political contest ahead of the 2027 presidential election, as opposition figures increasingly assess the administration’s record on security, economic management and public accountability.
While the former vice-president framed the reported incident as evidence of misplaced priorities, the central issue remains the need for effective security measures that protect Nigerians regardless of their political affiliation or location.