The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of being overly focused on politics while Nigerians grapple with worsening economic hardship and insecurity.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the President’s recent remarks about the opposition as “unpresidential”, arguing that they show a disconnect from the realities facing citizens.
The reaction follows comments reportedly made by the President, in which he dismissed opposition parties and mocked them for holding their convention “on the street”.
The ADC said such comments suggest misplaced priorities at a time when many Nigerians are struggling with rising living costs, food inflation, and declining purchasing power.
“At a time when families are battling a historic cost-of-living crisis, the President chose to mock the opposition instead of addressing the suffering of Nigerians,” the statement said.
The party also raised concerns about the state of insecurity, noting reports of abductions and attacks affecting everyday life, while accusing the government of failing to respond adequately.
It rejected claims that its national convention was held on the street, describing the narrative as false and possibly the result of misinformation.
The ADC further alleged that the democratic space is shrinking under the current administration, claiming opposition parties are increasingly denied access to public venues.
“No government before now had denied political parties fair access to public venues such as Eagle Square, a national civic ground that belongs to all Nigerians, not to any ruling party,” the statement said.
On governance, the party accused the administration of weakening key institutions, saying: “The president also cannot preach separation of powers while simultaneously assuming the role of interpreter of the law, political referee, and commentator on judicial matters. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu cannot be a president and a judge at the same time.”
The statement also criticised what it described as a recent attempt by the president to align with supporters of former President Muhammadu Buhari: “After years of distancing himself from the late President and denigrating his record, blaming him for every failure of his government, it is hypocritical to suddenly make a U-turn because of the coming election. It is too late.”
The ADC maintained that Nigerians are facing mounting hardship, insecurity, and debt, adding that it remains focused on presenting a credible alternative in the next general election.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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