Democracy Has Failed Nigerians Under Tinubu, ADC Alleges

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the administration of President Bola Tinubu, claiming that democracy has failed to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians despite 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.

 

In an open Democracy Day message to Nigerians, signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party argued that the true measure of democracy should be its impact on citizens’ lives rather than the number of years since the end of military rule.

 

The ADC challenged Nigerians to assess the country’s progress by considering whether they feel safer, more prosperous and more confident in government than in previous years.

 

“Twenty-seven years after the return to democratic rule, and three years into the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress, we ask you these simple questions: Is your life better today than in the past? Do you feel safer today than you felt in the past? Do you trust the government more than before?” the party stated.

 

“The answer to these questions is no doubt painfully clear: a resounding no.”

 

The party accused the APC-led administration of presiding over worsening insecurity, economic hardship and declining public confidence in democratic institutions.

 

According to the ADC, violent crime, kidnapping and banditry have continued to spread across the country, leaving many communities vulnerable.

 

“Every single day, Nigerians are killed in their dozens and kidnapped in their hundreds. Bandits and other criminal elements openly negotiate for ransoms and set the terms of co-existence,” the statement said.

 

The opposition party also expressed concern over the economic situation, arguing that rising food prices, transportation costs, healthcare expenses and school fees have placed severe pressure on households.

 

It said many workers have seen the value of their incomes eroded, while small businesses continue to struggle under difficult economic conditions.

 

The ADC further lamented the challenges facing young Nigerians, noting that unemployment and limited opportunities have pushed many to seek better prospects abroad.

 

“Our young people, who should be the engine of national renewal and economic growth, increasingly confront a future defined by uncertainty,” the party stated.

 

The ADC argued that the country’s challenges are the result of poor leadership and ineffective policies rather than unavoidable circumstances.

 

It accused the government of failing to provide practical solutions to insecurity and the rising cost of living, relying instead on what it described as “propaganda and more promises of a better life in the future.”

 

As part of its alternative vision, the party called for a security strategy that is intelligence-led, technology-driven and community-based. It also advocated economic policies aimed at lowering energy costs, supporting small businesses, improving food security and protecting low-income earners.

 

The ADC further pledged to promote transparency, accountability and stronger democratic institutions if given the opportunity to govern.

 

“We believe that government should once again be judged by results. Not by headlines. Not by speeches. Not by excuses. But by whether Nigerians are safer, whether Nigerians are more prosperous, and whether Nigerians can once again believe that their country is moving in the right direction,” the statement added.

 

The party maintained that the sacrifices made during the June 12 democratic struggle can only be honoured through a democracy that delivers security, prosperity and opportunity for all Nigerians.