Atiku challenges Tinubu to explain $20bn Chagoury deals

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has challenged President Bola Tinubu to clarify questions raised by The Economist regarding $20 billion worth of projects allegedly associated with Gilbert Chagoury, a close associate of the president. Atiku, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, stated that the concerns have shifted the debate over procurement, government contracts, and alleged political influence beyond domestic criticism and into the international arena.

He emphasized that the Nigerian people deserve to know the details of projects worth approximately ₦27 trillion, given the current economic hardships faced by Nigerians. Atiku called for transparency regarding contract awards, competitive tendering, tax concessions, and ownership structures. He criticized the presidency for deflecting criticism by attacking political opponents instead of addressing the substance of the allegations.

Atiku urged the Federal Government to release public records and details related to the projects, emphasizing that Nigeria cannot be governed as a "friends-and-family investment portfolio."