The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has warned that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu risks a major defeat in the 2027 general elections, saying he will be contesting against “millions of Nigerians” facing severe hardship under his administration.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party was reacting to comments by the President, who said he was not afraid of the opposition and criticised its activities.
The ADC described the President’s remarks as unpresidential, alleging that he appears more focused on politics than addressing worsening poverty, insecurity, and economic challenges.
“What Nigerians saw was not the confidence of a leader in control. It was the anxiety of a president increasingly disconnected from the reality of hardship, insecurity, and frustration facing millions of citizens,” the party said.
It added that at a time when Nigerians are grappling with rising inflation, food insecurity, and declining purchasing power, the President should be focused on governance rather than engaging in political criticism of the opposition.
The party also referenced insecurity concerns, including the abduction of children from examination centres, describing it as evidence of worsening national security conditions.
The ADC warned the President against ridiculing opposition parties, insisting that public frustration over economic policies and hardship is driving rejection of the government.
It also dismissed claims about its national convention being held on the street, stating that the President was misinformed and blaming what it described as shrinking democratic space for opposition parties.
The party further accused the administration of undermining institutional independence, including the legislature, and violating the principle of separation of powers.
“The President cannot be a President and a judge at the same time,” the statement said, adding that democratic institutions must be allowed to function without interference.
The ADC also criticised recent comments by the President regarding the late former President Muhammadu Buhari, describing them as hypocritical and politically motivated ahead of elections.
It concluded that hardship, insecurity, rising debt, and declining public confidence remain the central issues in the country, insisting that no political messaging can obscure the realities Nigerians are facing.
The party said it remains committed to building an alternative based on competence, security, economic prosperity, and democratic freedom, urging Nigerians to demand better governance.
