ATIKU CHALLENGES TINUBU OVER REPORTED ₦150 MILLION SUVs FOR APC YOUTH LEADERS

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has challenged President Bola Tinubu and the Presidency to explain the funding behind the reported distribution of luxury sports utility vehicles to selected youth leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), the controversy has triggered fresh political debate over transparency, the use of resources and the priorities of political leaders at a time when many Nigerians continue to struggle with the rising cost of living. In a statement issued through Phrank Shaibu, the director of strategic communications for Atiku’s presidential campaign council, the former vice-president questioned who financed the vehicles and how much the reported distribution cost. The development comes as political parties intensify preparations for the 2027 general elections, the controversy followed a social media post by Dayo Israel, the APC’s national youth leader, announcing the presentation of brand-new 2026 Toyota Prado vehicles to selected youth leaders, the post reportedly described the vehicles as support for election mobilisation activities. Israel also expressed appreciation to First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for her support for the party’s youth structure, the social media post was subsequently deleted, according to TheCable’s report. The reported distribution quickly attracted public attention because of the vehicles’ stated value and the country’s prevailing economic difficulties. However, the precise total cost of the vehicles and the full details of their funding have not been independently established in the reporting reviewed for this article. Atiku questioned the source of the funds used to acquire and distribute the vehicles, he argued that Nigerians deserved to know whether the vehicles were purchased with personal funds, private donations or public resources. The former vice-president also criticised the reported distribution against the backdrop of rising living costs, unemployment and concerns about access to basic necessities. Atiku called on the Presidency to provide a clear explanation of the funding arrangements, his position is that the public deserves transparency whenever questions arise about the possible use of public resources for political purposes. The criticism has added to the wider political debate over government spending and the responsibilities of political leaders, the controversy is partly driven by reports that individual vehicles were valued at more than ₦150 million. At that reported price, the distribution of several vehicles would represent a substantial financial commitment. Nevertheless, the reported value should not be treated as a verified purchase price without supporting documentation, the number of vehicles distributed, the actual transaction prices and the identity of the people or organisations that financed them are all relevant to understanding the issue. If the vehicles were acquired using private funds, questions about the source of those funds may still attract public interest. If public money was involved, the relevant expenditure and authorisation would require appropriate scrutiny. At present, the public allegations alone do not establish that government funds were used, the dispute comes at a sensitive period as political parties prepare for the 2027 elections. Campaign mobilisation, party organisation and the support provided to political structures are expected to become increasingly prominent issues. Opposition politicians are likely to scrutinise decisions by the governing party, while the APC and its supporters may defend their activities and challenge the opposition’s criticism. For voters, the broader question is whether political spending reflects transparent funding arrangements and responsible leadership, the debate also highlights the importance of separating verified facts from political accusations during an election cycle. The next important development would be a detailed explanation of the reported vehicle distribution, including the funding source, the number of vehicles involved and the circumstances of their acquisition. A response from the Presidency, the First Lady’s office or the APC could help clarify the issues raised by Atiku. Until further evidence becomes available, claims concerning the use of public funds should remain allegations rather than established facts, the controversy is likely to remain part of the wider political conversation as Nigerians assess the priorities, spending decisions and accountability of those seeking public office.