Atiku to Tinubu: You must open NNPCL books, tell us who’s financing your campaign

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called upon current President Bola Tinubu to disclose the details of the National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL)'s outstanding debt of ₦11.2 trillion to the Federation. This debt encompasses various claims, including the protection of Nigeria's oil and gas assets.

Atiku argues that Nigerians have a right to know exactly how much of this substantial amount is allocated towards pipeline surveillance, for whom the funds are directed, and what protection is obtained in return. He asserts that the Nigerian populace deserves transparency in such significant expenditures, emphasizing that a mother should not have to fear for her child's safety while the government remains opaque about its spending.

Tinubu is urged to answer to the people regarding the justifications behind these choices. Moreover, Atiku criticizes the stark contrast in resource allocation between the Ministry of Defence, which received ₦3.1 trillion in 2025, and the ₦11.2 trillion recorded by NNPCL as other receivables from the Federation. He contends that under Tinubu's administration, oil sector revenues have far outpaced the funds allocated for national defense, highlighting the administration's priorities.

Atiku also questions the relationship between government contractors and Tinubu's re-election campaign, particularly noting that companies like Tantita, which holds pipeline security contracts, and the Chagourys, involved in the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway contract, have received government support. He demands transparency regarding the government's dealings with these entities, asking for evidence of contracts, bidding processes, and whether these individuals have provided financial or other forms of support to Tinubu's re-election efforts.

Atiku urges Tinubu to acknowledge the hardships facing Nigerians, such as poor infrastructure, economic challenges, and inadequate safety measures, and to demonstrate empathy rather than dismissing the suffering as mere progress. He warns that if Tinubu's administration continues to prioritize personal gain and lacks accountability, Nigerians will reject such policies and demand change in the upcoming 2027 elections, promising to make Nigeria more affordable and improve living conditions.