IMF Report Validates Nigerians’ Suffering, Says Atiku
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said that the latest assessment by the International Monetary
Fund (IMF) only confirms the severe economic hardship and suffering currently being endured by
ordinary Nigerians.
Atiku made the remark in a statement issued on Sunday, April 19, 2026, through his Senior Special
Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu.
He criticised the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, describing the current
situation as “organised hardship dressed up as reform.”
Reacting to the IMF’s recent warnings about rising food and transportation costs squeezing household
incomes, Atiku stated that the Fund’s position merely echoes what Nigerians have been experiencing
daily under the current reforms.
“What was promised as renewed hope has become renewed hardship, raw, relentless, and unforgiving,”
the statement read.
Atiku argued that policy inconsistencies, weak leadership, and a disconnect from the realities of ordinary
citizens have worsened living conditions despite claims of macroeconomic gains.
He pointed to persistent high inflation, elevated cost of living, and the impact of global shocks as
evidence that the reforms have not delivered relief to the masses.
The IMF had earlier warned during its Spring Meetings in Washington, D.C., that Nigerians may face
tougher economic conditions in the near term due to rising food and fuel prices amid lingering global
uncertainties, including the effects of the Iran conflict.
Atiku urged the government to acknowledge the depth of citizens’ suffering and adopt more people-
centred measures rather than continuing with policies that, in his view, exacerbate poverty and
inequality.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
