The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to be concerned about his chances in the 2027 general election, citing worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and growing public dissatisfaction across the country.
In a statement released on Friday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the current situation in Nigeria has weakened public confidence in the government and could lead to electoral consequences.
The statement came as a response to recent remarks by President Tinubu, who dismissed opposition figures and criticised their activities during a political gathering earlier in the week.
The ADC said the President appears disconnected from the daily struggles of ordinary Nigerians. According to the party, many citizens are facing rising food prices, declining purchasing power, and increasing cost of living.
“At a time when families are battling a serious cost-of-living crisis, the President chose to mock the opposition instead of addressing the suffering of Nigerians,” the statement said.
The party argued that economic reforms introduced by the current administration have placed heavy pressure on households and businesses.
Since taking office in 2023, President Tinubu has implemented major economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange system. While the government says these reforms are necessary to stabilise the economy, critics argue they have contributed to inflation and hardship.
The ADC said these conditions have created frustration among citizens and could influence how Nigerians vote in the next election.
Beyond economic issues, the party also raised concerns about insecurity across the country.
It pointed to reports of kidnappings and attacks in different parts of Nigeria, including incidents affecting schools and public spaces.
“Even as the President spoke, reports of children being abducted from examination centers were circulating,” the statement said, describing the situation as a sign that insecurity is spreading into everyday life.
Nigeria has faced security challenges for years, including insurgency in the North-East, banditry in the North-West, and kidnapping in several regions. Despite efforts by security agencies, many communities continue to experience attacks.
The ADC said the government should focus more on addressing these issues rather than engaging in political disputes.
The exchange between the presidency and the ADC followed comments by President Tinubu about opposition figures, including Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and Rotimi Amaechi.
These figures had been linked to discussions within opposition circles, including activities around the ADC’s national convention held on April 14.
President Tinubu reportedly described the gathering as a “street convention” and accused opposition leaders of trying to take control of the party.
In response, the ADC rejected the description, insisting that its convention was properly organised.
“We did not hold our convention on the street,” the party said. “If that was the information given to the President, then he has been misinformed.”
The party also claimed that opposition groups are facing increasing difficulties in accessing public venues for political activities.
The ADC accused the government of shrinking democratic space, alleging that opposition parties are not being given fair access to public facilities.
It specifically mentioned Eagle Square in Abuja, a major venue often used for national events and political gatherings, saying it should be available to all political parties.
“No government before now had denied political parties fair access to public venues such as Eagle Square,” the statement said.
Political analysts note that access to public space is important for democratic engagement, especially as parties prepare for future elections.
The ADC also criticised what it described as interference in the separation of powers.
It accused the President of acting beyond his role by commenting on legal and political matters in a way that could undermine institutions.
“The President cannot be a President and a judge at the same time,” the party said.
The statement further alleged that the National Assembly has, at times, appeared weak in its role as a check on the executive arm of government.
As political activities begin to take shape ahead of the 2027 elections, parties and leaders are already positioning themselves.
The ADC also accused President Tinubu of trying to attract supporters of the late Muhammadu Buhari.
It described this as inconsistent, claiming that the President had previously distanced himself from Buhari’s record but is now seeking political advantage from his legacy.
The party said such actions show that politics is already taking centre stage, even as many Nigerians continue to struggle with economic and security challenges.
The ADC said it is focused on building what it described as a credible alternative for Nigerians.
According to the party, its vision includes improving security, strengthening the economy, and promoting democratic values.
“The issue before the country today is simple: hardship is rising, insecurity is worsening, debt is mounting, and hope is fading,” the statement said.
It added that Nigerians deserve better governance and should not be distracted by political arguments.
The exchange between the presidency and the ADC reflects growing political tension as Nigeria moves closer to the 2027 elections.
While the government continues to defend its policies as necessary for long-term growth, opposition parties are highlighting the immediate impact on citizens.
For many Nigerians, the main concern remains how government decisions affect daily life, including the cost of food, transportation, and security.
As political debates intensify, the challenge for all parties will be to convince voters that they have workable solutions to the country’s problems.