Presidency Responds to Criticism from African Democratic Congress
The Presidency defended President Bola Tinubu on Monday after the African Democratic Congress (ADC) criticized his remarks regarding their recent party conference. ADC members and former forum participants accused the president of making comments that they believe could undermine Nigeria’s democratic framework.
The ADC Forum, led by former Congressman Hon. Nnenna Ukeje, expressed concerns about what they perceive as a shrinking political space under the Tinubu administration. They noted that Tinubu, who has previously championed political pluralism and judicial independence, appears to contradict these democratic ideals in his current leadership role.
In response, Special Assistant to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, accused the ADC of misrepresenting Tinubu’s statements for their political advantage. He dismissed the opposition’s claims, labeling them “Nigeria’s latest batch of conspiracy theorists” struggling for coherence and relevance.
Dare contended that the ADC is in “internal turmoil,” stating that the president did not single out the ADC when he referred to political gatherings as “noise” and “street rallies.” He suggested that the forum’s interpretation of Tinubu’s comments as a direct attack was misguided, arguing that the president’s remarks were general and reflective of his usual political commentary style.
Rejecting allegations that Nigeria’s democracy is under threat, Dare asserted that democratic institutions remain robust and fully operational. He addressed concerns about judicial independence, emphasizing the judiciary’s constitutional autonomy and the need to avoid involving it in partisan politics. He warned against attempts to erode public trust in the judicial system through what he described as unfounded accusations.
Dare criticized the opposition coalition as a hastily assembled platform seeking to gain traction ahead of the upcoming election cycle, saying, “Even before the election season officially begins, the opposition continues to scream blue murder.” He accused them of attempting to discredit the electoral process while making unverified claims against the administration to gain favor with the international community.
In his statement, Dare acknowledged that while ADC members recognized Tinubu’s historical role in promoting democratic values, they paradoxically sought to portray him as a threat to those very principles. He emphasized that a leader’s commitment to democracy cannot simply be dismissed overnight, stating, “The same discipline and conviction that defined President Tinubu’s political journey did not suddenly evaporate.”
