Former Nigerian Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has levelled accusations against President Bola Tinubu, citing a conflict of interest due to Tinubu’s son, Seyi’s involvement on the board of CDK Integrated Industries, a subsidiary of the Chagoury Group. The Chagoury Group is owned by one of President Tinubu’s business allies, Gilbert Chagoury. Atiku’s statements come amidst concerns over the Chagoury Group’s role in the Lagos-Calabar coastal highway project, overseen by the Tinubu government, which Atiku has criticized for alleged irregularities in procurement processes.
In a statement issued by his Media Adviser, Paul Ibe, Atiku criticized the Federal Government while advising Tinubu to prioritize attracting genuine investors over propagandist state policies. Atiku, who contested as the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the 2023 elections, highlighted CDK Integrated Industries’ involvement in manufacturing ceramic tiles and sanitary towels, emphasizing a report by a Paris-based Africa Intelligence News Agency that disclosed Seyi’s official business association with Chagoury.
Atiku reiterated concerns regarding the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway project, claiming it was rushed due to the business relationship between Tinubu and Chagoury, who owns Hitech, the contractor awarded the project. Allegations of contraventions of procurement laws and lack of transparency in the project’s execution have been raised by Atiku.
Furthermore, Atiku criticized the Tinubu administration’s handling of infrastructure projects, citing the demolition of properties without adequate notice and alleged favoritism towards personal interests over national priorities. He highlighted challenges faced by businesses under Tinubu’s governance, citing a lack of protection for investments and economic policies leading to losses and exits of manufacturing firms.
Atiku emphasized the need for transparency and coordination in government projects, pointing out discrepancies in project funding and implementation. He urged Tinubu’s administration to prioritize improving the ease of doing business to attract sustainable investments, rather than relying on propaganda.
While addressing these issues, Atiku stressed the importance of accountability and adherence to due process in governance, calling for a shift towards policies that promote national development and investor confidence.
