Nigeria’s opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has alleged that President Bola Tinubu’s government is capitalizing on the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari to divert attention from its governance challenges. In a sharply worded statement on Friday, ADC interim spokesperson Bolaji Abdullahi criticized recent federal tributes to Buhari as “hypocritical” and “stage-managed,” accusing the administration of orchestrating a public relations campaign to bolster its waning credibility, particularly in northern Nigeria.
The party singled out a special Federal Executive Council meeting held to commemorate Buhari, who died last month, calling it a “calculated stunt” to reframe public perception. Abdullahi described the event, which featured an appearance by Buhari’s son Yusuf, as exploitative. “Using a grieving family member as a political prop is in poor taste,” he said. “Nigerians must question a government that leverages private pain to polish its public image.”
The ADC also highlighted what it termed the administration’s “relentless campaign” to distance itself from Buhari’s policies since Tinubu took office in 2023. Officials under Tinubu have repeatedly blamed Buhari’s government for Nigeria’s economic struggles, accusing him of fiscal mismanagement and leaving behind a “broken economy.” Abdullahi noted the contradiction in now positioning the current administration as a guardian of Buhari’s legacy. “For months, they framed Buhari as the root of Nigeria’s hardships. Now, amid rising discontent, they suddenly claim to defend his name,” he said.
The ADC’s critique underscores deepening political tensions as Tinubu’s government faces scrutiny over inflation, security challenges, and reforms criticized for exacerbating inequality. Analysts suggest the administration’s recent efforts to align with Buhari, a northern icon, may aim to shore up support in a region where Tinubu’s All Progressives Congress (APC) has faced declining approval. However, opposition figures argue the strategy risks backfiring. “Nigerians recognize this grand deceit,” Abdullahi stated. “No PR maneuver can mask a government that has governed like an occupying force.”
The presidency has not formally responded to the ADC’s accusations. Meanwhile, public reactions remain divided, with some citizens condemning the politicization of Buhari’s death while others echo concerns over economic hardships. The controversy reflects broader debates about accountability and legacy in Nigeria’s evolving political landscape.
