By Emmanuel Thomas l Wednesday, Oct. 14, 2026
ABUJA — Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has issued a passionate appeal to citizens across the nation, acknowledging the profound socio-economic pressures and pervasive security threats confronting Nigerian households.
In a direct address to the nation, Atiku criticized the economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, stating that the current administration has made life increasingly unmanageable for average citizens while failing to guarantee basic safety.
Deepening Hardship and Security Concerns
Directly addressing the widespread distress across demographic groups, the former Vice President highlighted the severe burdens faced by families, retirees, and the youth demographic struggling under skyrocketing living expenses and inflation.
”My fellow Nigerians, young and old, I know the pain you are carrying,” Atiku stated. “Parents go to bed worried about what they will feed their children tomorrow. Pensioners must choose between buying medicine and buying food. Young people work hard, yet transport, rent, and basic needs consume what they earn.”
Beyond economic hardship, the ADC presidential candidate pointed out the constant threat of violent crime and abduction that looms over many Nigerian communities.
”Across the country, families live with the fear of kidnapping, attacks, and whether their loved ones will return home safely,” he lamented, emphasizing that citizens should not be subjected to dual crises. “No family should have to face hunger and insecurity at the same time. We cannot allow this hardship and fear to become the future our children inherit.”
Call to Action: Civic Power via the PVC
Ahead of the upcoming electoral cycle, Atiku underscored the vital importance of voter participation as the legitimate vehicle for political renewal.
He urged all eligible citizens to ensure they obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
”If you are a registered voter, please go and collect your PVC. Hold on to it,” Atiku charged. “It is your voice, your choice, and your peaceful power to demand change.”
Directly linking the current economic situation to the incumbent administration, the veteran politician promised a comprehensive policy shift focused on restoring affordability, public safety, and national pride if elected into office.
”Bola made life expensive. I will work to make life affordable again and restore the security every Nigerian deserves,” Atiku declared. “Let us stand together, across generations, and vote for a Nigeria where every family can live with dignity, safety, and hope.”
1. Economic Context
Nigeria has experienced significant economic challenges marked by elevated inflation rates, currency devaluation, and rising costs for essential commodities, energy, and transportation. These conditions have strained household budgets nationwide, leading to heightened public frustration over living costs and diminished purchasing power.
2. Security Landscape
Insecurity remains a primary national concern, characterized by ongoing threats including banditry, kidnapping for ransom, insurgencies, and communal conflicts across various regions. Public demand for robust defense strategies and effective policing has made national security a central issue for political platforms.
3. Political Realignments and Election Preparation
Following previous general elections, key political actors have realigned ahead of the upcoming presidential race.
Atiku Abubakar’s transition to lead the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) reflects broader structural realignments within the opposition landscape aimed at presenting a unified front against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). Calls for PVC collection highlight early mobilization efforts by opposition parties to ensure maximum voter turnout.
