Nigeria Budgeting for Ransom? Atiku Reacts

By Jonadab | DocuNews Central

May 28, 2026

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu over worsening insecurity and economic hardship in Nigeria. He accused the federal government of celebrating rising borrowing figures while many Nigerians continue to struggle with fear, inflation and poverty. People are asking Is Nigeria Budgeting for Ransom?

According to DocuNews Central, Atiku said several families across Nigeria now live in fear because of increasing kidnapping incidents. He argued that many citizens now consider possible ransom payments whenever relatives travel on major highways.

The statement was released on Thursday in Abuja, Nigeria. Atiku’s media aide, Phrank Shaibu, issued the reaction while responding to recent comments from government officials regarding Nigeria’s debt profile and economic reforms.

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Atiku Raises Alarm Over Insecurity

Atiku stated that insecurity continues to affect communities across different parts of Nigeria. He said several roads have become dangerous because of attacks linked to kidnappers and armed gangs.

He added that many farmers have abandoned farmlands due to security threats. As a result, food production has reportedly dropped in several rural communities.

According to DocuNews Central, the former vice president claimed that ordinary Nigerians now face growing fear over abductions and ransom demands.

Federal Government Borrowing Debate Continues

The former vice president also questioned the federal government’s rising borrowing profile. He argued that citizens expect visible improvements in security, infrastructure and economic conditions whenever new loans are secured.

Government officials have defended Nigeria’s debt profile in recent months. Authorities insist that loans are necessary to support economic reforms and infrastructure projects.

However, opposition figures continue to raise concerns about debt servicing costs and the economic hardship facing many households.

What Happened?

Atiku Abubakar reacted to recent government comments regarding Nigeria’s debt and economic reforms. He criticised the Tinubu administration over insecurity and growing fears surrounding kidnapping incidents.

Where Did It Happen?

The statement was issued in Abuja, Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory. However, the concerns raised relate to insecurity incidents reported across several Nigerian states.

Who Is Involved?

The individuals involved include former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, President Bola Tinubu and Atiku’s media aide, Phrank Shaibu.

Authorities Continue Security Operations

Security agencies have continued operations against armed gangs and kidnappers in different parts of Nigeria. Military authorities previously announced joint operations targeting criminal hideouts in northern states.

Police authorities have also increased patrols on major highways and vulnerable communities. Despite these efforts, residents in affected regions continue to report attacks and abductions.

Economic Pressure Remains High

Nigeria continues to face inflation and rising living costs. Food prices, transport costs and electricity tariffs have increased across several states.

Economic analysts have linked part of the food inflation crisis to insecurity affecting farming communities and supply routes.

According to DocuNews Central, many traders and small business owners also continue to report rising operational costs linked to fuel prices and transportation expenses.

For official government updates, readers can visit the Nigerian Presidency.

Debt-related statistics are available through the Debt Management Office.