The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Federal Government of Nigeria of manipulating food prices for political gain. According to the party, the government’s claim of increased local food production and a decline in the cost of food items is dishonest.

In a statement, ADC spokesman Bolaji Abdullahi expressed concern over the government’s narrative on the drop in food prices, stating that it is misleading. He argued that the reported decrease in prices is artificial and a result of import waivers that have flooded the market with cheap foreign food, rather than evidence of sound policy or increased local production.

Abdullahi noted that this approach has sabotaged local farmers, who can no longer compete due to soaring input costs and worsening insecurity. He described the situation as the government “weaponising hunger for political gain.” The ADC spokesperson emphasized that any current drop in price is temporary, unsustainable, and driven by panic, not strategy or deliberate planning.

The party also questioned the government’s claim that it has not released imported food into the market, asking why the government would hoard food while citizens go hungry. The ADC condemned the manipulation of food prices and called for a complete overhaul of the current agricultural approach.

The accusation comes as the Nigerian government faces criticism over its handling of the country’s economic challenges. The ADC’s statement highlights the need for a more sustainable and equitable approach to addressing food security and supporting local farmers. As the debate over the government’s economic policies continues, the ADC’s allegations are likely to spark further discussion on the impact of the administration’s decisions on the lives of Nigerian citizens.