A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) leader and politician from Kano, Alhaji Abdulmajid Dan Bilki Commander, has sent shockwaves through Nigerian politics by publicly expressing regret for campaigning for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in the 2023 general election. In a candid phone interview, Commander did not mince words as he sharply criticized the Tinubu administration, admitting that he was deeply disillusioned with the outcome of the election and the state of governance under the ruling APC.
The seasoned political figure, who is known for his influence within the APC ranks in Kano, took to social media to express his discontent, stating that he had never experienced a deeper sense of regret in his long political career. His statements have sparked conversations across the nation, as the public begins to question the political dynamics within the ruling party.
“I regret campaigning for Tinubu,” Commander said, his voice heavy with disappointment. “It pains me, but it is the truth, and I must say it as it is. The administration has not delivered on its promises, and many Nigerians, including those who supported Tinubu and APC in 2023, feel betrayed.”
Alhaji Dan Bilki Commander, whose allegiance to the APC was once unwavering, outlined the failure of the current administration to live up to the expectations of the electorate. Despite being an active member of the party, he confessed that the actions of the government have left him disillusioned and regretful. His open criticism is significant, as it challenges the very foundation of the party’s promises during the election cycle.
Broken Promises and Unmet Expectations
Commander did not hold back in his critique of Tinubu’s presidency, claiming that Nigerians have been left to bear the brunt of a government that promised change but failed to deliver.
“Under this government, Nigerians are hungry and angry,” he said. “They can barely afford two square meals a day, and their security is not guaranteed. The country is facing severe economic hardship, and the governance we see today is lopsided, neglecting the most basic needs of the people.”
The exasperation in Commander’s tone was evident as he described the rising dissatisfaction across the nation, particularly in his home state of Kano. The people, he said, are struggling with inflation, unemployment, and an unprecedented economic crisis that has worsened under the APC-led government. The promises of a better Nigeria, which were central to Tinubu’s campaign in 2023, now seem hollow to many, including the politician himself.
“I campaigned for Tinubu because I believed in his vision for the country, but the reality today is far from what we were promised,” he lamented. “I stood before Nigerians and urged them to trust the APC, but now I see that I have misled them, and I must seek their forgiveness.”
A Call for Accountability and Reflection
While acknowledging his role in rallying support for Tinubu’s election bid, Commander emphasized the importance of holding the government accountable for its actions. His remarks echo growing dissatisfaction among the public, who are now openly questioning the government’s ability to address the critical issues facing Nigeria.
“I am an advocate for the truth, and it is time we face the reality,” he stated. “The APC promised change, but all we are seeing is a government that has failed to keep its word. As a representative of the people, I must own up to my actions and express regret where it is due.”
Commander’s statements are a rare moment of reflection within the party, as the APC struggles to manage internal dissent and a public that is becoming increasingly disillusioned with the promises of the ruling government.
Political Fallout and the Road Ahead
The political fallout from Commander’s comments could have a ripple effect within the APC, which has seen fractures in its ranks due to dissatisfaction with Tinubu’s leadership. Many believe that Commander’s public denouncement could inspire other party members to openly question their loyalty to the administration, especially if the country’s economic and security situations continue to worsen.
This admission of regret may be viewed as a pivotal moment in Nigerian politics. With an increasing number of former allies and political figures openly criticizing Tinubu’s administration, it seems that the once-unified APC is beginning to show signs of internal disarray.
Political analysts suggest that Commander’s comments could be part of a larger movement within the party calling for greater accountability. His actions may inspire other influential figures to speak out against the leadership, creating a wave of discontent that could challenge the APC’s hold on power in the future.
“I never imagined that I would be saying this,” Commander concluded. “But it is the truth. Nigeria deserves better, and I will continue to speak out until our leaders start fulfilling the promises they made to us.”
The Broader Context
The backdrop to Commander’s criticism is the rising tide of unrest across Nigeria. Since Tinubu’s inauguration in May 2023, the country has been plagued by soaring inflation, skyrocketing food prices, and mounting security challenges, which have left millions of Nigerians questioning the effectiveness of the government.
The APC, which has dominated Nigeria’s political landscape since 2015, faces increasing pressure to address the growing dissatisfaction among its supporters. Public opinion has shifted dramatically, with many Nigerians now voicing their disillusionment with the party’s leadership.
This criticism comes as a growing number of political figures within the APC are distancing themselves from the administration. Political observers have pointed out that such admissions of regret from prominent party members signal deeper divisions within the party and could have long-term consequences for its ability to retain power in the upcoming elections.
