The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has labeled the past year under the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration as the most challenging in Nigeria’s history since the Civil War.
In a statement PDP National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba said following a thorough review, the PDP cited rising insecurity, poverty, economic hardship, and widespread disillusionment as evidence of the administration’s failures.
The PDP attributed the current national distress to the APC’s policies, particularly the removal of the fuel subsidy and the floating of the Naira, which were implemented without adequate consideration for the welfare and security of citizens. They also criticized the arbitrary hike in electricity tariffs and the imposition of multiple taxes, which they claim have exacerbated the suffering of already impoverished Nigerians.
The party condemned the lack of measures to cushion the economic blow of these policies, which they argue has driven many Nigerians into extreme poverty and early death. They accused the APC of using poverty as a weapon of mass destruction, causing widespread despondency and disengagement from government affairs.
Highlighting issues of corruption, the PDP pointed to the continuing payment of trillions of naira in fuel subsidies into private accounts linked to APC leaders, despite the official removal of the subsidy. They also noted the government’s failure to account for the savings from the subsidy removal.
The PDP expressed alarm at the economic mismanagement that has led to the departure of multinational companies and major divestments in the oil and gas sector, resulting in massive job losses and economic instability. They cited alarming unemployment and inflation rates and a significant devaluation of the Naira as indicators of the administration’s economic failure.
On security, the PDP criticized the APC’s ineffectiveness, noting over 5,000 reported killings and numerous abductions since May 29, 2023, without substantial government intervention.
The party praised PDP-governed states for their efforts in improving citizen welfare through various development projects and urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reflect on his administration’s impact. They called for a clear economic roadmap, effective governance, and action against corruption.
Ologunagba, commended Nigerians for their resilience and encouraged them not to lose hope in democracy despite the APC’s shortcomings.
