Atiku Knocks First Lady Remi Tinubu Over Birthday Celebration Amid School Abductions

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for holding a birthday celebration at a time when abducted schoolchildren remain in captivity, questioning the appropriateness of the festivities.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has berated First Lady Oluremi Tinubu over what he described as an insensitive birthday celebration held while several abducted schoolchildren remain in the hands of their captors.

In a statement issued through his media office, Atiku questioned the morality of celebrating amid the nation's mounting security crisis, particularly the wave of school abductions that have left families devastated across the country.

The former vice president's remarks reflected deep disapproval of the timing of the celebration. He queried what kind of mother would be in a celebratory mood while children of fellow citizens languish in captivity, describing the situation as a reflection of the disconnect between those in power and the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.

Atiku argued that public office holders and their families should show empathy and solidarity with grieving families rather than engaging in lavish festivities during a period of national mourning and anxiety.

He stressed that leadership comes with moral responsibility, noting that the symbolism of celebrations at such a sensitive time sends the wrong message to citizens who are looking up to the government for protection and reassurance.

The criticism comes against the backdrop of a fresh wave of mass abductions targeting schools across parts of the country, including the kidnapping of pupils and teachers, which has triggered nationwide outrage, protests and renewed concerns about the safety of children in educational institutions.

Atiku, a frequent critic of President Bola Tinubu's administration, has repeatedly faulted the Federal Government's handling of insecurity, calling for a comprehensive overhaul of the nation's security architecture and counterterrorism strategy.

He urged those in leadership positions to prioritise the safe return of the abducted children and to demonstrate genuine concern for the families affected by the spate of attacks.

As of the time of this report, the Office of the First Lady had not issued an official response to Atiku's comments.