Growing criticism has trailed the administration of President Bola Tinubu as opposition figures and socio-political stakeholders accused the Federal Government of failing to address worsening economic hardship, insecurity, and declining living standards across Nigeria.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) presidential candidate for the 2027 election, Adewole Adebayo, on Friday expressed concern over what they described as widespread public dissatisfaction with the administration after three years in office.
They argued that Nigerians were grappling with rising costs of living, unemployment, insecurity, and shrinking economic opportunities despite government reforms.
Their reactions followed the release of findings from a survey reportedly conducted by Eagle Badger Data Analytics, which indicated that only 30.2 per cent of Nigerians approved of Tinubu’s performance, while 47.5 per cent expressed disapproval. The survey also suggested that a majority of citizens believed their living conditions had deteriorated since the president assumed office in May 2023.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said the reported figures reflected a deepening disconnect between the government and the people, adding that many Nigerians had lost confidence in the administration.
The party described the reported approval rating as evidence of public frustration over economic challenges and security concerns across the country.
According to the ADC, rising inflation, increasing food prices, transportation costs, unemployment, and business closures have placed enormous pressure on households and small businesses.
The party maintained that economic indicators being highlighted by government officials did not reflect the realities experienced by ordinary Nigerians struggling to afford basic necessities.
It further linked the country’s security challenges to its economic difficulties, arguing that many farmers remained unable to access their farmlands due to attacks by bandits and kidnappers, thereby affecting food production and contributing to higher food prices.
The opposition party also stated that after three years in office, responsibility for the nation’s challenges now rested squarely with the current administration and could no longer be attributed to previous governments.
In a separate statement marking Tinubu’s third anniversary in office, Adebayo said many Nigerian families were finding it increasingly difficult to meet their daily needs, including food, healthcare, and education.
He argued that despite working hard, many citizens were unable to achieve financial stability because of the prevailing economic conditions.
The SDP presidential candidate specifically criticised the impact of the fuel subsidy removal policy, saying it had significantly increased transportation costs and worsened the burden on households already battling inflation.
Adebayo also expressed concerns about the state of Nigeria’s democracy, warning against any development that could weaken political competition or undermine democratic institutions.
He called for stronger opposition participation and urged Nigerians to support leaders committed to accountability, transparency, and national development.
The SDP candidate added that his party was preparing to field candidates for governorship, National Assembly, and other elective positions across the country during the 2027 general elections.
Also reacting, Afenifere chieftain, Oba Oladipo Oladotun, voiced concern over worsening insecurity and economic hardship, saying many Nigerians no longer felt safe in their communities and were struggling to survive.
He urged government at all levels to prioritise job creation, agriculture, healthcare, housing, education, and infrastructure development while safeguarding Nigeria’s multiparty democratic system.
