Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has taken a swipe at President Bola Tinubu over reports that security personnel are guarding his campaign billboards in Kaduna ahead of the APC’s presidential campaign rally scheduled for Saturday.
Atiku, who is seeking the presidency under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), questioned why Tinubu’s campaign materials reportedly required protection while many Nigerians remained vulnerable to attacks by armed groups.
The former vice-president raised the issue in a post on X on Friday, contrasting the security arrangements for the President’s billboards with the challenges faced by communities affected by banditry and terrorism.
“Bola, you claim Nigerians love you, yet your billboards in Kaduna require security guards. Bandits raid villages, terrorists attack communities, and families live in fear. Your posters enjoy protection that millions of Nigerians can only dream of,” he wrote.
“What a tragic statement of your government’s priorities. Bola, please protect Nigerians with the same urgency you protect your image!” he added.
Tinubu is expected in Kaduna on Saturday, October 24, for the APC’s first presidential campaign rally, which will also attract senior party members and government officials.
Ahead of the event, the Kaduna State Police Command introduced movement restrictions for heavy-duty vehicles across the metropolis. The affected vehicles include trailers, tankers and lorries, with the restriction taking effect at midnight and ending at 8pm on Saturday.
Commissioner of Police Muhammad Rabiu said the decision was reached after consultations with the state security committee and transport unions. He explained that the arrangement was designed to ease traffic and allow smoother movement during the presidential visit.
Rabiu disclosed that security agencies had activated measures to prevent disruptions and maintain order throughout the rally. Personnel from the police, military, Department of State Services and other agencies are expected to participate in the operation.
The security plan includes tactical teams, bomb disposal experts, traffic officers and crowd-control personnel.
The police commissioner also cautioned political parties and their supporters against violent conduct, intimidation, thuggery and possession of dangerous weapons.
He appealed to residents to support the security agencies by maintaining peace and cooperating with officers throughout the campaign event.
