Atiku Abubakar, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has called on President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action regarding allegations involving his son, Seyi Tinubu, and an attempt to influence the leadership of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS).
In a statement issued on Friday, Atiku, through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, warned that Nigeria should not be treated as the personal property of any individual or family. The statement, titled "Tinubu Must Call His Family To Order: Nigeria Is Not A Private Estate," followed claims made by Comrade Atiku Isah, a factional president of NANS.
On Wednesday, Isah alleged that Seyi Tinubu attempted to bribe him with N100 million in Lagos to publicly support the president. Isah claimed he rejected the offer, asserting that he could not endorse a president who had failed to fulfill his campaign promises. Following his refusal, Isah claimed he was assaulted, stripped, and abducted by thugs on April 15.
In response, Seyi Tinubu denied any involvement in the alleged incident, accusing Isah of fabricating the story to damage his reputation.
Atiku condemned the alleged actions, describing them as a dangerous violation of democratic principles. He expressed deep concern over the allegations of physical assault, abduction, and bribery, particularly considering they were allegedly linked to the first family. He called on President Tinubu to immediately address the situation and rein in his family members, emphasizing that such behavior undermines civil liberties and the integrity of democratic institutions.
Atiku further stressed that the actions of Seyi Tinubu and his alleged attempts to manipulate the leadership of NANS must be condemned, and he called for an independent investigation into the matter. He also warned that any harm to Isah would be met with serious consequences.
In conclusion, Atiku emphasized that the presidency is a public trust, not a private inheritance. He dismissed any claims of a political alliance with Isah, asserting that their meeting was focused solely on issues of education reform.
