FBI files: Unzip your pocket, Atiku dares Tinubu

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has dismissed the recycled accusations against him as a desperate attempt by his political opponents to deflect from the hardships faced by Nigerians. In a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku expressed that the resurgence of old allegations, rooted in the political turmoil of the Obasanjo era, is a sign that his opponents are running out of answers to the issues plaguing the country, such as soaring prices, inadequate basic services, and growing insecurity.

Atiku emphasized that desperation often manifests as accusations from the past, an effort to create a "panic dressed up as accountability." He reminded the public that during his time under scrutiny, the Obasanjo administration took extensive measures, involving multiple administrative panels, the National Assembly, and the courts, yet he was never convicted.

Atiku challenged anyone with credible evidence to bring it forward for judicial examination, asserting that a petition does not constitute a conviction, and repetition does not equate to a legal judgment. He contrasted his approach with that of his opponent, Bola Tinubu, who sought access to FBI and DEA records in an American court, arguing for privacy interests despite the allegations against him.

Atiku's challenge to Tinubu is to open all lawful records and subject every allegation to scrutiny, revealing which candidates welcome transparency and which seek to shield their records from public examination. Atiku concluded by stating that the EFCC is a national institution, not a political tool, and that it should investigate genuine wrongdoing, not serve as a weapon in times of political defeat.

He urged Nigerians to judge the candidates based on their records, their quality of life, and the future they promise, warning that those fearful of such judgment may continue to dig into the archives.