When the presidency prioritizes the ballot more than the battlefield: Atiku Accusses Tinubu of choosing politics over national security.

Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, has criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over what he described as the administration's focus on political activities at a time the country continues to grapple with worsening insecurity.

In a statement dated July 11, 2026, and signed by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku said Nigeria needs "a Commander-in-Chief, not a Campaigner-in-Chief."

The former Vice President made the remarks while reacting to the successful rescue of abducted pupils and teachers from Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

Atiku commended the Nigerian Armed Forces and other security agencies for what he described as their courage, professionalism and sacrifice in securing the freedom of the victims.

According to him, the rescue operation represents a significant victory for the nation's security forces and offers renewed hope to Nigerian families affected by insecurity.

 "The rescue of innocent schoolchildren from the hands of terrorists is a victory for our gallant troops and a source of hope for every Nigerian family. They deserve the gratitude of the nation," Atiku stated.

Despite applauding the military, Atiku criticised President Tinubu's response to the development, noting that the rescue coincided with the launch of the All Progressives Congress (APC) door-to-door campaign ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

He argued that no responsible government should prioritise re-election campaigns while innocent citizens remain in captivity, insisting that the government's foremost responsibility is to protect lives and restore public confidence.

"The first campaign of any responsible administration must be the campaign to rescue its citizens, restore security and reassure anxious families. Politics can wait; the lives of innocent children cannot," he said.

Atiku further maintained that the President, as Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, should have personally addressed Nigerians immediately after the rescue operation alongside the country's security chiefs.

According to him, such an appearance would have acknowledged the bravery of security personnel, reassured affected families and demonstrated the government's determination to confront terrorism.

He argued that leaving the announcement to the President's spokesman while the President remained engaged in political activities created the impression that politics had taken precedence over national security.

"The Commander-in-Chief is more than a constitutional title; it is a moral responsibility. Leadership is not exercised only behind closed doors; it must also be seen, heard and felt by both the citizens and those who threaten them," he added.

The former Vice President also cautioned against viewing the successful rescue as the end of Nigeria's security challenges, noting that many Nigerians, including schoolchildren in Borno State and victims in other parts of the country, are still being held captive.

He called on the Federal Government to intensify military operations against terrorists, bandits and kidnappers until all abducted Nigerians are rescued and communities affected by insecurity are restored to peace.

Atiku concluded by stating that leadership is ultimately measured not only by victories achieved on the battlefield but also by the courage and visibility demonstrated by leaders during moments of national crisis.

© SPOTLIGHT ONLINE NEWS