Yam Plenty, Pot Empty: Atiku’s Aide Slams Tinubu’s Independence Address

Yam Plenty, Pot Empty: Atiku’s Aide Slams Tinubu’s Independence Address

 

 

 

The Special Assistant on Public Communication to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Phrank Shaibu, has dismissed President Bola Tinubu’s Independence Day speech, insisting that while “the yam is plenty, the pot remains empty.”

 

Shaibu faulted the President’s claims that the nation’s economy is “turning the corner” and that his administration is laying foundations “in concrete and not on quicksand.” According to him, Nigerians continue to struggle with hunger and insecurity despite the nation marking its 65th year of independence.

 

In a statement titled “Citizen’s Response to the Independence Day Address of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” Shaibu said:

 

“On this 65th anniversary, we listened to the President’s glowing speech on education, healthcare, the economy, and national security. But as citizens, we must speak the truth of our lived reality. The yam may be plentiful, but the pot is empty — and the people remain hungry.”

 

 

 

Shaibu highlighted deficiencies in key sectors, saying pupils still sit on bare floors, hospitals lack basic equipment, and teachers and health workers struggle to survive on inadequate salaries.

 

He also criticized the President’s economic claims, noting that rising food prices, transportation costs, and daily hardship leave Nigerians with little to celebrate.

 

“If these are the seeds of reform, the fruit is still bitter. When the roof is on fire, it is folly to declare the rain has quenched it,” Shaibu said.

 

 

 

On security, the aide described the President’s declaration of victories over bandits and terrorists as disconnected from reality. He cited the recent killing of Somtochukwu, a young Arise TV news anchor, as evidence that Nigerians continue to live in fear.

 

Shaibu further challenged the government on social welfare programs, asking:

 

“If the yam was truly cooked, neighbours would perceive the aroma. Across the land, poverty still walks naked and hunger knocks daily, yet the government sings of generosity that citizens cannot see or feel.”

 

 

 

He also lamented the plight of Nigerian youth, pointing out that many graduates struggle to survive through menial jobs instead of receiving the promised opportunities.

 

Concluding, Shaibu said:

 

“Independence anniversaries are moments of sober reflection, not self-praise. Nigeria is 65 years old. But our leaders still serve promises as though they were meals. The yam is there, but the pot remains empty.”