TMSG Knocks Atiku Over ‘Competing With Thieves’ Remark

Oru Leonard 

The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has described as “utterly laughable” a recent statement by former Vice President and African Democratic Congress (ADC), presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, that he was “competing with thieves” ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Emeka Nwankpa, and Secretary, Dapo Okubanjo, the group said Atiku was not in a position to accuse others of corruption, given the allegations and controversies that had surrounded his years in public office.

TMSG said the former Vice President appeared to be relying on Nigerians forgetting the controversies associated with his tenure as deputy to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
“It is indeed utterly laughable that Alhaji Atiku Abubakar could unabashedly call anyone in government names after what Nigerians know about his time in office as former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s deputy,” the group said.

According to TMSG, Atiku’s recent comments were part of what it described as an attempt to discredit President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 elections.

The group argued that Atiku, who has contested the presidency several times, was under pressure to make strong political statements as he seeks another opportunity to lead the country.
“What is clear is that the perennial presidential candidate, under the weight of desperation, is fully out and prepared to throw just anything and everything at President Bola Tinubu,” TMSG said.

The group recalled criticisms made by former President Obasanjo about Atiku in his book, My Watch, including allegations concerning corruption, disloyalty, lack of transparency and poor judgment.

TMSG also cited a 2010 report by the United States Congress which, according to the group, examined allegations concerning offshore funds linked to Atiku and his then-wife, Jennifer Douglas Abubakar.

It further referred to allegations involving Siemens and claims concerning payments allegedly made to an account associated with Jennifer Douglas, as well as a report by a Nigerian Senate committee which accused Atiku of diverting funds from the Petroleum Technology Development Fund (PTDF).
The group also criticised Atiku’s role as Chairman of the National Council on Privatisation, alleging that the privatisation programme under his watch resulted in the sale of some public assets at low prices.

TMSG maintained that the allegations and controversies surrounding Atiku’s public career made his recent accusations against members of the present administration difficult to accept.
“We are convinced that the former Vice President has so much baggage bordering on corruption allegations to be sauntering around, accusing others of things he is liable for,” the group said.

It added that Atiku’s strategy of attacking opponents had failed in previous elections and would not help him secure victory in 2027.

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