2027: Don’t use Ebola to discourage Nigerians from voting, Atiku tells FG

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the current government's handling of the Ebola outbreak and its potential misuse to undermine political activity. Atiku emphasized the urgent need for transparency and accountability in the use of funds earmarked for Ebola preparedness, which amounted to ₦10 billion. He questioned the government's failure to account for the funds, requesting detailed information on the disbursed amounts, payment dates, awarded contracts, recipients, and delivered items.

Atiku also highlighted the government's delayed response in confirming the Ebola case in Abuja, where the patient arrived on October 5, developed symptoms on October 7, and sought care at a private hospital on October 11. The government only confirmed the case publicly on October 20, nine days after the patient sought medical attention.

During this critical period, 44 close contacts were left unmonitored, and private health workers faced the case without proper protective equipment. Atiku called for the government to disclose the actions taken during the crucial period and for the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and medical professionals to lead the response, rather than political appointees.

He expressed concern that the government's failure to respond effectively could deepen public anxiety and disrupt economic activity. Furthermore, Atiku criticized the Minister of Health's planned press conference, alleging it aimed to discourage Nigerians from attending political rallies and voting. He stressed that any public health measures must be evidence-based, applied fairly, and not used to infringe on citizens' democratic rights.