By Ameenat Hamzat, Lagos, Nigeria

Nigerian Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, has warned President Bola Tinubu that reliance on palliative measures will not guarantee electoral victory in the 2027 elections.

Atiku made this known in a statement titled “Rice, Spaghetti Can’t Save You: Atiku To Tinubu“, issued on Tuesday by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, stating that the distribution of food items cannot replace public trust or determine electoral outcomes.

“Bags of rice, spaghetti, and Indomie may offer temporary relief, but they can not secure legitimacy at the ballot box.”

He said the current administration’s growing political dominance has not translated into confidence but rather reflects fear of opposition and the electorate.

“At a time when over 30 state governors have been drawn into the ruling party’s orbit, Nigerians are witnessing a growing pattern of actions that suggest not strength but fear.”

The former vice president also raised concerns over alleged attempts to weaken opposition parties and misuse of state institutions.

“There is a growing resort to crass and reckless detention orders targeted at opposition figures.”

He warned that the country risks drifting towards a one-party state if the current trend continues, stressing that democratic principles must be upheld.

“If the current trajectory continues, Nigeria risks sliding into a system where elections exist in name, but competition is effectively neutralised.”

Atiku urged Nigerians to remain vigilant ahead of the next general elections, emphasising the need for free, fair, and co

mpetitive processes.