In a blistering critique, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused President Bola Tinubu of distorting Nigeria’s economic realities with “fabricated statistics.” The opposition party issued a fiery statement on Monday, slamming Tinubu’s policies as the root cause of Nigeria’s growing hardships.
“President Tinubu’s media chat underscores the insensitivity of his administration,” PDP National Publicity Secretary Debo Ologunagba declared. “His claims about economic improvement and safer roads are completely detached from the struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians.”
The PDP did not stop at criticism, challenging Tinubu to “travel from Abuja to Lagos by road” to witness firsthand the insecurity and decaying infrastructure that have made life unbearable for many.
The opposition party lambasted Tinubu’s unwavering defence of the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies, a policy it claims has left millions in economic despair. According to the PDP, the lack of cushioning measures has led to skyrocketing inflation, a collapsing productive sector, and widespread poverty.
“Nigerians are now grappling with inflation at 34.6%, the Naira has plunged to N1,700 per dollar, and unemployment stands at a staggering 40%,” the PDP noted. “These figures are not just numbers; they represent the anguish of millions.”
In the media chat, Tinubu defended the removal of the fuel subsidy, stating he had no regrets about the decision. This stance drew sharp criticism from the PDP, which described his approach as “callous and disconnected from the basic tenets of governance.”
The PDP also took issue with Tinubu’s acknowledgment of his administration’s failure to curb petroleum smuggling, which has compounded the economic crisis.
“How can the government claim progress when basic economic indicators are deteriorating?” the party questioned. “The savings from subsidy removal remain unaccounted for, leaving Nigerians to wonder where the funds are being channelled.”
The party accused Tinubu of neglecting critical sectors like agriculture, electricity, and small businesses—pillars that drive economic growth in any nation. “This government has failed to invest meaningfully in these areas, further exacerbating the economic downturn,” the statement added.
Tinubu’s assertion that Nigerians can now travel safely by road was met with skepticism and outright disdain by the PDP. The party highlighted the persistent threats of banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery, coupled with the appalling state of the nation’s highways.
“If President Tinubu believes his own claims, he should embark on a road trip from Abuja to Lagos,” the PDP challenged. “Let him experience the insecurity and infrastructural decay firsthand.”
The party cited recent tragedies, such as food stampedes in multiple states that claimed over 80 lives, as evidence of the growing poverty under the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government.
Amid rising discontent, the PDP demanded transparency regarding the use of funds supposedly saved from the fuel subsidy removal. “Nigerians deserve answers,” the statement read. “Where are the promised investments in social welfare and critical infrastructure?”
The opposition also called for a shift in policy direction, urging the administration to prioritize the welfare and security of citizens.
“There is no hope in sight under this government,” the PDP declared. “The APC must stop misleading Nigerians and focus on genuine solutions to our challenges.”
Public opinion appears to align with the PDP’s criticisms, as many Nigerians have expressed frustration over the worsening economic conditions. Traders, artisans, and professionals alike lament the rising cost of living and insecurity.
“I don’t know how they expect us to survive,” said Aisha Abdullahi, a trader in Lagos. “Prices of goods have tripled, and transportation costs are unbearable.”
Similarly, civil society groups have decried the lack of transparency and accountability in the government’s handling of economic reforms. “The fuel subsidy removal was supposed to be a gateway to economic recovery, but it has turned into a nightmare for ordinary Nigerians,” one activist remarked.
The PDP’s statement concludes with a rallying call for the Tinubu administration to adopt a more compassionate and practical approach to governance. “Leadership is about service, not rhetoric,” the party emphasized. “The government must bridge the gap between promises and reality to restore hope to Nigerians.”
As Nigerians brace for the challenges ahead, the demand for transparency, accountability, and responsive leadership continues to grow. Whether the Tinubu administration will heed these calls remains to be seen.
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