The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the ruling All Progressives Congress of worsening insecurity, deepening economic hardship and eroding public confidence in democratic institutions.
In an open letter to Nigerians to commemorate the 2026 Democracy Day celebration, which was signed by it’s National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi on Thursday, the party said June 12 should not only be a celebration of Nigeria’s democratic journey but also a moment of reflection on the state of governance and the welfare of citizens.
ADC argued that democracy should be measured not by the number of years since the end of military rule but by the quality of life enjoyed by citizens.
According to the party, Nigerians are currently grappling with rising insecurity, economic hardship and declining trust in public institutions.
The ADC said insecurity remains one of the country’s greatest challenges, alleging that criminal elements have become emboldened while many communities continue to live under constant fear of attacks and kidnappings.
“Government is getting weaker; criminals are getting stronger,” the party stated, adding that the primary responsibility of any government is the protection of lives and property.
The opposition party also lamented the rising cost of living, noting that increasing prices of food, transportation, housing, healthcare and education have placed severe pressure on millions of households.
It further expressed concern over unemployment and the growing number of young Nigerians seeking opportunities abroad, saying many youths no longer see a viable future within the country.
The ADC maintained that the current situation has contributed to declining public confidence in democratic governance, with many citizens questioning whether government institutions truly serve the public interest.
The party dismissed claims that Nigeria’s challenges are inevitable, arguing that insecurity, poverty and weak institutions are products of poor governance and ineffective policies.
According to the statement, the APC administration has failed to provide sustainable solutions to the country’s security and economic challenges.
Offering an alternative approach, the ADC said it would pursue security reforms driven by intelligence gathering, technology, stronger community partnerships and greater involvement of state and local authorities in policing their communities.
The party stressed that security spending should be evaluated based on outcomes rather than budgetary allocations.
“The measure of success is whether a farmer can return safely to his farm, whether a trader can travel without fear, and whether citizens can live, work and worship in peace,” the statement said.
On the economy, the ADC pledged to implement policies aimed at reducing the cost of governance, supporting small businesses, protecting low-income earners and ensuring that economic growth translates into tangible improvements in living standards.
The party also promised to prioritise food security through expanded agricultural mechanisation, improved irrigation infrastructure, enhanced food storage systems and measures to curb food inflation.
In addition, the ADC vowed to strengthen transparency and accountability in governance, reform electoral administration and ensure that public institutions function effectively.
The party said democracy must go beyond the right to vote and provide citizens with opportunities to work, prosper and live with dignity.
It called on Nigerians to use Democracy Day as an opportunity to demand accountability from leaders and reflect on the future direction of the country.
“We believe that government should once again be judged by results, not by headlines, speeches or excuses, but by whether Nigerians are safer, more prosperous and able to believe once again that their country is moving in the right direction,” the statement added.
