By George Omagbemi
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has challenged President Bola Tinubu and the Presidency to explain who financed the reported donation of seven brand-new 2026 Toyota Land Cruiser Prado SUVs to selected youth leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Atiku, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) presidential candidate, said Nigerians deserved transparency over the source of funds used to acquire the luxury vehicles, reportedly valued at more than ₦150 million each.
In a statement issued on Monday by Phrank Shaibu, Director of Strategic Communication of the ADC Presidential Campaign Council, Atiku questioned whether the vehicles were purchased with private funds, donations or public resources.
He argued that the matter required a clear explanation, particularly as many Nigerians continue to struggle with rising food prices, transportation costs and other basic necessities.
The controversy followed a video shared by APC National Youth Leader Dayo Israel showing seven new Prado SUVs presented to selected party youth leaders for political mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections. Israel thanked First Lady Oluremi Tinubu for her support, while the First Lady subsequently confirmed donating vehicles to support the party’s grassroots activities.
However, Israel later told the International Centre for Investigative Reporting (ICIR) that the SUVs were gifts from unnamed donors and denied that they were funded through government allocations or taxpayers’ money.
Atiku maintained that the Presidency should disclose the total cost and funding arrangements, arguing that public resources, if involved, must be accounted for.
The controversy has intensified debate over political spending, campaign financing and economic hardship as parties prepare for the 2027 elections.
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