The African Democratic Congress has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reflect on his leadership as he marks his 74th birthday, citing concerns over economic hardship and insecurity.
In a statement issued on Sunday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the occasion presents an opportunity for introspection, while criticising what he described as governance shortcomings under the current administration.
The party, while offering prayers for the president, described his tenure as “a presidency whose impact is now impossible to ignore.”
The remarks come amid ongoing national debates over economic reforms, the removal of fuel subsidies, and persistent security challenges.
Economic concerns
Mr Abdullahi highlighted the rising cost of living and fuel prices, noting the strain on Nigerians.
“Under your watch, fuel prices have risen by nearly 500%, turning basic transportation into a daily calculation of survival,” he said.
He further stated that economic conditions have worsened for many households, with increased hardship across the country.
Security challenges
The ADC spokesman also raised concerns over insecurity, referencing Nigeria’s position on the Global Terrorism Index.
“Under your leadership, Nigeria has climbed to 4th on the Global Terrorism Index, while thousands of lives have been lost to violence, families shattered, and communities displaced,” he said.
He criticised the government’s handling of the situation, alleging that official rhetoric sometimes blurs accountability.
“Under your presidency, insecurity has not just persisted, it has adapted, expanded, and, at times, been met with language that blurs accountability,” he added.
Call for reflection
The party urged the president to use his birthday as a moment for reflection and reassessment of governance priorities.
“As you celebrate your final year in office, Nigerians can only offer a prayer that this next year brings a sudden and unfamiliar miracle: that you begin to take governance more seriously, see the loss of lives as a failure of leadership, and act with the weight and responsibility of leading the world’s most populous Black nation,” Mr Abdullahi said.
The ADC concluded by wishing the president “good health, improved judgment, and a sense of responsibility to the people you govern.”
Background
Reports indicate petrol prices have risen significantly since the start of the administration, driven by subsidy removal policies and global market pressures linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Similarly, data from the 2025 Global Terrorism Report shows an increase in fatalities linked to insecurity, further intensifying public concern.
Despite these challenges, the federal government maintains that economic reforms are yielding gradual improvements, while ongoing efforts address security issues.
In a message shared on X, President Tinubu expressed appreciation for birthday wishes and reaffirmed his commitment to national service.
“As I mark this special day, I am reminded of the challenges we’ve faced since we initiated our reforms. I’m glad that our sacrifices have not been in vain, as we can see some glittering light at the end of the tunnel,” he said.
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