The African Democratic Congress on Sunday used President Bola Tinubu’s birthday to issue a stern critique of his administration, pointing to what it described as worsening living conditions, persistent insecurity, and growing concerns over Nigeria’s democratic space.
In a statement released by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said the president’s birthday presents a moment for national reflection, stressing that the realities faced by Nigerians under his leadership can no longer be overlooked.
The party lamented the sharp rise in fuel prices since Tinubu assumed office, estimating the increase at nearly 500 per cent, and noting that the development has significantly strained household incomes and made daily transportation increasingly unaffordable for many citizens.
It also decried the country’s security situation, alleging that Nigeria’s standing on the Global Terrorism Index has deteriorated while violent attacks continue to claim lives and displace communities across different regions.
According to the ADC, the Federal Government’s response to insecurity has raised concerns, particularly in its use of language that appears to soften the perception of those responsible for violence, even as victims continue to suffer devastating losses.
The opposition party further highlighted the rising cost of living, saying economic pressures have intensified and dashed the expectations of many Nigerians who had hoped for improved conditions under the administration’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.
Beyond economic and security challenges, the ADC expressed unease over what it described as a gradual contraction of Nigeria’s political space, warning that such a trend could threaten the country’s multi-party democracy.
The party, however, noted that the president’s birthday offers an opportunity for introspection, urging him to reassess his policies and place greater emphasis on governance that directly improves citizens’ welfare and safety.
It called on Tinubu to demonstrate stronger leadership in addressing the nation’s pressing challenges, particularly by acknowledging the scale of insecurity and taking decisive steps to curb it.
The statement concluded with a goodwill message, wishing the president good health while urging him to use the coming year to make meaningful decisions that will ease the burden on Nigerians.
