Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu over the alleged hack of the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) website. Atiku stated that this latest incident adds to the list of troubling developments under Tinubu’s leadership.

The NBS recently released a report revealing concerning security statistics, including the murder of about 614,937 Nigerians within one year. The report, titled The Crime Experienced and Security Perception Survey (CESPS) 2024, also indicated that over 2.2 million Nigerians were kidnapped, with a staggering N2.2 trillion paid as ransom, averaging N2.7 million per kidnapping.

In a statement from his media office, Atiku emphasized the critical importance of reliable data for national development and research. He questioned the timing of the alleged hack, which occurred shortly after the release of these alarming security statistics. Atiku suggested that the hack could be an attempt to discredit the credibility of the NBS data, which is crucial for informed policymaking.

Atiku expressed concerns that the current administration’s actions might undermine the trust in data used for planning and development. He hopes that this situation does not reflect an attempt to weaken the integrity of essential national statistics, which are vital for the country’s progress.

The much-anticipated final of the inaugural WAFU U17 Girls’ Cup will take place this Sunday, with Nigeria’s Flamingos set to face Ghana’s Maidens in a thrilling showdown. This match promises to be a significant encounter, as both teams have been in impressive form throughout the tournament.

Nigeria’s Flamingos have been dominant, scoring 14 goals and conceding just two in their three matches. Their attacking prowess has been evident, and they enter the final with plenty of confidence. On Thursday, they secured a 2-0 victory over Benin Republic in the second semi-final, with both goals coming in the second half. Mary Lucky Mkpa opened the scoring with a penalty in the 70th minute, and Peace Effiong doubled the lead after a goalkeeping error. Despite a disallowed 84th-minute goal by Janet Akekoromowei, the Flamingos’ performance showed their determination and quality.

Ghana’s Maidens have also been impressive, with their most recent result a convincing 5-0 victory over Cote d’Ivoire, sending them to the final. The Ghanaian team will be looking to challenge Nigeria for the title in what promises to be a thrilling contest.

The final will be held at the Ghana Centre of Excellence in Prampram, just outside Accra, the same venue where the Flamingos triumphed in their semi-final. With both teams in strong form, Sunday’s final is set to be a spectacle of skill and determination as the two West African giants battle for the ultimate prize.