Atiku Criticises Tinubu’s Spokesman Over ‘Own Goal’ China Remark
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticised a spokesperson to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over remarks describing Nigeria as having scored an “own goal” in its engagement with China, arguing that the statement raises serious concerns about the Federal Government’s foreign policy direction.
Atiku, through a statement issued by his media team, questioned the rationale behind the comment, insisting that such a public assessment by a presidential spokesperson could undermine Nigeria’s diplomatic relations and create uncertainty about the administration’s position on strategic international partnerships. He called on the Presidency to clarify whether the remarks reflected the official stance of the Federal Government or were merely a personal opinion.
The former presidential candidate maintained that China remains one of Nigeria’s key development partners, with longstanding cooperation in infrastructure, trade, investment, and technology. He argued that comments capable of creating diplomatic misunderstandings should be handled with caution, particularly at a time when Nigeria is seeking greater foreign investment and stronger bilateral ties.
Atiku further urged the Tinubu administration to ensure consistency in its public communication, stressing that statements made by senior government officials and presidential aides carry significant implications for the country’s international image and economic interests.
The development has sparked fresh political debate, with observers awaiting an official response from the Presidency to clarify the context and intent of the controversial “own goal” remark on Nigeria’s relationship with China.
