The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of focusing more on politics while Nigerians face worsening economic hardship and insecurity.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party described the President’s recent comments about the opposition as “unpresidential,” saying they show a disconnect from the realities citizens are facing.
The reaction followed remarks reportedly made by the President, where he dismissed opposition parties and mocked them for holding their convention “on the street.”
According to the ADC, such comments reflect misplaced priorities at a time when Nigerians are dealing with rising living costs, food inflation, and reduced 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 insecurity, pointing to ongoing reports of abductions and attacks, and accused the government of not doing enough to address the situation.
ADC rejected claims that its convention was held on the street, describing the report as false and possibly based on misinformation.
It further alleged that the democratic space is shrinking, claiming opposition parties are being 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 criticised what it described as the weakening of key institutions, adding:
“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 also accused the President of political inconsistency, referencing his recent alignment 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 party maintained that Nigerians are facing increasing hardship, insecurity and debt, while stating that it remains focused on offering a credible alternative in the next general elections.
