The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of placing political interests above the urgent economic and security issues confronting Nigerians. In a statement from its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party criticized the President’s recent comments about rival parties, labeling them as “unpresidential” and indicative of a disconnect from the realities faced by citizens. This response follows remarks made by President Tinubu, in which he dismissed opposition parties and mocked them for holding their convention “on the street.”
The ADC rejected the narrative presented by the President, describing it as false and potentially stemming from misinformation. The party expressed concern that the democratic space is shrinking under the current administration, claiming that opposition parties are increasingly being denied access to public venues, such as Eagle Square, which they argue should be accessible to all Nigerians, not just the ruling party. The ADC emphasized that such comments reflect 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 read.
Additionally, the ADC raised alarms about the state of insecurity in the country, citing reports of abductions and attacks that are affecting everyday life. The party accused the government of failing to respond adequately to these threats. Furthermore, the ADC criticized what it termed a recent attempt by the President to align himself with supporters of former President Muhammadu Buhari. They noted, “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.”
On the issue of governance, the ADC accused the administration of undermining key institutions. They stated, “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 ADC concluded by asserting that Nigerians are facing increasing hardship, insecurity, and debt, while reaffirming its commitment to presenting a credible alternative in the upcoming general election.
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