The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has told President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to brace for a major political challenge ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting that his real contest would be against millions of Nigerians facing hardship.
The opposition party said the President should be “scared” of defeat, citing what it described as widespread economic struggles and insecurity across the country.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party criticised Tinubu’s recent comments in which he reportedly mocked opposition parties.
The ADC described the remarks as “unpresidential,” arguing that the President appeared more focused on politics than governance.
“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,” the statement said.
The party said rising cost of living, food inflation, debt burden, and insecurity were the major concerns Nigerians expect the government to address.
It noted that while citizens struggle with economic challenges, incidents of insecurity, including kidnappings, continue to spread.
“At a time when families are battling a historic cost of living crisis… the President chose to mock the opposition instead of addressing the suffering of Nigerians,” the statement added.
The ADC also rejected claims that its national convention was held “on the street,” insisting that such narratives were misleading.
The party alleged that access to public venues, including Eagle Square in Abuja, had become increasingly restricted under the current administration.
“Even if any opposition party were forced to gather outside established venues, Nigerians would understand why,” it said, alleging a shrinking democratic space.
The opposition party further accused the President of undermining democratic institutions, particularly the legislature, which it claimed has been weakened.
It also criticised Tinubu’s alleged commentary on legal and political matters, saying he should not act as both President and “judge.”
The ADC said the worsening economic and security situation could shape voter decisions in 2027.
“The issue before the country today is simple: hardship is rising, insecurity is worsening, debt is mounting, and hope is fading,” the party stated.
It added that it remains committed to presenting what it described as a credible alternative focused on governance, security, and economic recovery.