ABUJA — A dramatic turn of rhetoric unfolded at the African Democratic Congress (ADC) National Convention in Abuja as former Minister of Interior, Rauf Aregbesola, launched a scathing attack on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, calling for his resignation over worsening insecurity and deepening economic hardship.
Addressing delegates at the high-profile gathering, Aregbesola described the Federal Government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda as a “scam,” arguing that the administration has failed to deliver on its promises nearly three years into its tenure.
In a speech laced with sharp criticism and political urgency, the former Osun State governor accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of mismanaging the country and undermining democratic institutions. He alleged that the current administration has presided over economic policies that have worsened the living conditions of Nigerians.
“The exchange rate has moved from about ₦700 to over ₦1,400 to the dollar in the open market,” Aregbesola said, describing the development as devastating for an import-dependent economy. He further highlighted the sharp rise in fuel prices—from between ₦185 and ₦238 per litre before the current administration to about ₦1,400 per litre—as evidence of mounting economic pressure on citizens.
According to him, the ripple effects of these economic challenges are evident in the soaring cost of transportation, which has made commuting unaffordable for many workers. He also criticised the government’s handling of the power sector, claiming that electricity supply has deteriorated significantly, with some regions reportedly receiving only a few hours of power daily, while others endure prolonged blackouts.
Aregbesola did not stop at economic issues. He condemned what he described as the government’s failure to tackle insecurity, citing persistent violent attacks across the country and alleging a lack of empathy in official responses to national tragedies.
“Ordinarily, having made such promises and fared woefully, an honest president should step down,” he declared, insisting that the administration’s performance falls short of expectations set during the 2023 election campaign.
The ADC chieftain also took aim at Nigeria’s broader political landscape, criticising what he termed the criminalisation of electoral malpractice and accusing political actors of manipulating democratic processes. He stressed that the ADC’s existence is rooted in the aspirations of Nigerians seeking credible leadership and genuine reform.
Positioning the ADC as a viable alternative, Aregbesola described the party as being on a “rescue mission” to reclaim Nigeria from what he called the “strangulating grip” of the ruling party. He urged citizens to take a stand, warning that neutrality in moments of national crisis amounts to complicity.
“The country is drifting, and we cannot allow this continued slide into hopelessness,” he said, calling on Nigerians to rally behind the ADC in pursuit of a better future.
The convention, which reportedly attracted over 300 delegates, is expected to deliberate on key party matters, including the affirmation of the National Working Committee led by David Mark and the adoption of a revised constitution and manifesto.
As political tensions continue to rise ahead of future electoral contests, Aregbesola’s remarks signal a more confrontational posture from opposition figures, setting the stage for intensified political discourse over Nigeria’s economic direction, governance, and democratic stability.
