Atiku’s Link to ALSCON Sale Scandal Hunts His Presidential Ambition
The presidential ambition of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has been met with widespread criticism and outrage, as Nigerians remind him of his questionable past, particularly the scandal surrounding the sale of the Aluminum Smelter Company of Nigeria (ALSCON).
According to reports, ALSCON, a multi-billion dollar project, was built at a staggering cost of $3.2 billion. However, in a move that has been widely condemned as a gross undervaluation, Atiku sold the company for a mere $250 million, sparking allegations of corruption and cronyism.
The sale of ALSCON, which was meant to be a flagship project for Nigeria’s industrial development, has been described as one of the most brazen cases of asset stripping in the country’s history.
The massive loss incurred by the Nigerian government has been estimated to be in the billions of dollars, with many questioning how such a valuable asset could be sold off at a fraction of its worth.
Atiku’s role in the sale of ALSCON has been the subject of much controversy, with many accusing him of using his position as Vice President to facilitate the deal and enrich himself and his associates.
The former Vice President has consistently denied any wrongdoing, but the allegations have refused to go away.
Now, as Atiku seeks to become the President of Nigeria, many are questioning his fitness for office, given his questionable past.
“How can someone who oversaw the sale of ALSCON for a fraction of its worth be trusted to manage the affairs of Nigeria?It’s like putting a fox in charge of the henhouse,” asked a concerned citizen.
Atiku’s campaign slogan, “I want to rescue Nigeria,” has been met with derision and scorn, with many pointing out that he is the last person who should be talking about rescuing the country.
“Rescue Nigeria? He’s the one who helped to destroy it in the first place,” said another critic.
The ALSCON scandal is just one of several controversies that have dogged Atiku’s career, and it remains to be seen how he will respond to the growing criticism and outrage. One thing is certain, however: Nigerians will not forget the sale of ALSCON, and Atiku’s role in it, anytime soon.
