African Democratic Congress presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has rejected criticism over his decision to address President Bola Tinubu by his first name, “Bola.”

The former Vice President said the presidency should not be treated as a royal institution where citizens must show unquestioning deference to its occupant.

The controversy followed comments by Tinubu’s media aide, Sunday Dare, who criticised Atiku for repeatedly referring to the President as “Bola,” describing the move as disrespectful and an act of desperation. Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, also faulted Atiku’s choice of words, saying the office of the President should be treated with dignity regardless of political differences.

In a statement issued by his media aide, Phrank Shaibu, Atiku argued that public office does not place the President beyond criticism or scrutiny.

He said the focus of the government should be on addressing the challenges facing Nigerians, including the rising cost of petrol and food.

Atiku maintained that Tinubu’s position as President does not make him an emperor and argued that the Presidential Villa should not be regarded as a royal court.

He further said the presidency belongs to the Nigerian people and is an office held in trust for them, rather than a personal possession of its occupant.

The ADC candidate also defended his decision to speak directly to Tinubu, saying he did not need permission from the All Progressives Congress or an appointment with the President before expressing his views or proposing solutions to national problems.

The exchange comes as Atiku and Tinubu prepare for the 2027 presidential contest, with the Independent National Electoral Commission’s final list naming Tinubu as the APC candidate and Atiku as the ADC candidate.