Atiku Abubakar: “Why Not Recruit Unemployed Graduates Into the Police Force?”

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has proposed the formation of a broad political coalition aimed at challenging the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. During a meeting with stakeholders from Kogi East Senatorial Zone, led by ex-Kogi Deputy Governor Simon Achuba, Atiku expressed deep concerns over the worsening insecurity and what he described as the current government’s “incompetent and inefficient” leadership, according to Vanguard Newspaper.

Atiku emphasized the need for a united political front, which could involve key opposition parties such as the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the Labour Party (LP), and even factions within the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). He said this coalition is necessary to rescue Nigeria from the growing insecurity and economic decline.

“How can leaders remain indifferent while their citizens are being killed?” Atiku asked. “Such apathy is the height of irresponsibility for any political leader, anywhere.” He criticized the federal government’s handling of national crises and accused President Tinubu of failing to act decisively on critical issues.

Recalling his tenure under President Olusegun Obasanjo, Atiku highlighted how they swiftly addressed the rise of Boko Haram in 2002. “The president summoned me and asked, ‘Mr Vice President, what should we do about this?’ I advised him to call the service chiefs and give them a deadline—if they couldn’t contain the threat, they should resign,” he said, contrasting that approach with what he sees as today’s lack of urgency.

In addition to political and leadership criticism, Atiku called for structural reforms, particularly in the security sector. He pointed out the shortage of police personnel and the growing number of unemployed graduates.

“We are under-policed. There are not enough police officers in this country, while many graduates remain unemployed. Why not recruit them into the police force?” he suggested, proposing a solution that could both boost national security and tackle youth unemployment.

Atiku’s coalition proposal has sparked considerable interest in political circles, especially as it aims to unify traditionally opposing parties. While the framework and leadership of the alliance are yet to be defined, many see it as a serious move toward reshaping Nigeria’s political future ahead of the 2027 elections.

Political observers believe the initiative could shift the country’s power dynamics. One analyst noted, “This is more than just a critique—it’s a call to action. If successful, this coalition could redefine politics in Nigeria.”

Though uniting rival parties like the APC, PDP, and LP may seem ambitious, the urgency of Nigeria’s challenges appears to be pushing political players toward unprecedented alliances.