The opposition African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over recent remarks he made at the Presidential Villa, describing his comments as a reflection of “anxious leadership” and a growing disconnect from the plight of ordinary Nigerians.

In a statement issued by its spokesperson, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said Nigerians did not see confidence in the President’s remarks, but rather “the anxiety of a leader increasingly disconnected from the reality of hardship, insecurity, and frustration facing millions of citizens.”

The ADC accused the President of trivialising the struggles of Nigerians at a time when the country is grappling with a severe cost-of-living crisis, rising food inflation, mounting debt, and declining purchasing power. The party noted that while Tinubu addressed political issues, reports of insecurity — including incidents involving abduction of children — were circulating, underscoring what it described as the government’s misplaced priorities.

“The President should not be ridiculing the opposition,” the statement said, adding that widespread dissatisfaction with government policies has led to growing public discontent. According to the party, many Nigerians are determined to seek change through the ballot.

The ADC also rejected claims surrounding its National Convention, insisting it was not held “on the street” as suggested. The party argued that if there were any disruptions, they could be linked to what it described as a shrinking democratic space under the current administration.

It further alleged that opposition parties are increasingly being denied access to public venues, including the Eagle Square in Abuja, which it described as a national asset that should be available to all political actors.

On governance, the ADC accused the President of undermining the principle of separation of powers, stating that he “cannot be a President and a judge at the same time.” The party claimed that institutions meant to serve as checks and balances, particularly the legislature, have been weakened under the current administration.

The statement also criticised what it described as Tinubu’s recent political outreach to supporters of former President Muhammadu Buhari, calling it a “hypocritical U-turn” after previously distancing himself from Buhari’s legacy.

Framing the 2027 political landscape, the ADC said the core issues facing Nigerians remain worsening insecurity, economic hardship, rising debt, and declining hope. It maintained that “no amount of political theatre” can obscure these realities.

The party reiterated its commitment to presenting what it called a credible alternative focused on competence, security, economic recovery, and democratic freedoms, insisting that Nigerians deserve better governance.

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