By Imisioluwa Afunmiso
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) says the party is devoted to striking a balance between rich and poor citizens of Nigeria.
The party’s spokesman, Bolaji Abdullahi, has criticised the administration of Pres. Bola Tinubu, saying government policies have worsened economic hardship and weakened national security since 2023.
Speaking during an interview, Abdullahi said many Nigerians are already experiencing severe economic strain, dismissing claims linking inflation to global crises.
“Nigeria has been at war since 2023. President Bola Tinubu and the APC have declared war on Nigeria,” he said.
He stated that the rate of poverty in the country has made it difficult for citizens to relate to claims that external conflicts are responsible for the country’s economic challenges.
“More people have sunk into poverty, so when the president says the Iran-Iraq war may worsen inflation and make life more difficult, we can’t relate to that because that has been our reality since 2023,” Abdullahi stated.
He further questioned the country’s power situation, citing reports that the Presidential Villa has shifted away from the national grid.
“If the presidency has given up on Nigeria’s power supply and moved to solar, what do you expect the average citizen to do?” he asked.
Abdullahi also expressed concern over the rising rate of terrorism across member states of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), accusing the administration of mismanaging relations within the bloc.
Outlining his party’s position, Abdullahi said the ADC’s priorities are anchored on democratic citizenship and are people-oriented, emphasising the need for targeted economic measures that protect vulnerable groups.
“It is wrong to punish poor people for the crimes committed by the rich,” he said, adding that the party would prioritise targeted subsidies and taxation policies aimed at easing the burden on low-income Nigerians.
The remarks come less than a year before the 2027 presidential election, fuelling debate over economic reforms, power supply challenges, and security concerns.