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By Oscar Okhifo
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has congratulated President Bola Tinubu on his birthday while delivering a sharp critique of his administration, citing worsening economic hardship, rising insecurity, and what it described as a deepening governance crisis in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the Tinubu administration has, in its view, worsened the hardship facing Nigerians, driven by rising inflation, deepening insecurity, and a strained economy.
The party further argued that despite the government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda, many citizens are grappling with higher living costs, persistent security challenges, and what it described as a shrinking democratic space across the country.
The ADC noted that since Tinubu’s election, the administration has plunged the nation into untold hardship, unabated insecurity, and a worsening economy.
“As you mark another year, Nigerians reflect on a presidency whose impact is now impossible to ignore.
“Under your watch, fuel prices have risen by nearly 500%, turning basic transportation into a daily calculation of survival.
“Under your leadership, Nigeria has climbed to 4th place on the Global Terrorism Index, while thousands of lives have been lost to violence, families shattered, and communities displaced. Every hour, a Nigerian is killed by insurgents.
“Under your presidency, insecurity has not only persisted but has also adapted and expanded, and at times been met with language that blurs accountability where those who terrorize Nigerians are referred to as ‘sons’ and ‘brothers,’ even as victims bury their loved ones.
“Under your leadership, the economic strain on Nigerians has deepened, the cost of living has surged, and the ‘Renewed Hope’ you promised has turned into hopelessness for millions of Nigerian families.
“And under your watch, the political space is narrowing, raising serious concerns about a drift toward a one-party state in a democracy fought for with blood, sweat, and tears.”
The party said birthdays are usually moments of reflection, adding that this should also serve as President Tinubu’s final year in office.
The ADC further stated that such moments should prompt sober reflection and expressed hope that the coming year would compel the President to place greater priority on governance, take stronger responsibility for the country’s security and economic challenges, and demonstrate leadership that reflects the expectations of Nigerians.
“Wishing you good health, improved judgment, and a stronger sense of responsibility to the people you govern. Happy Birthday, Mr. President!”