The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the reported distribution of seven luxury Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs), said to be worth about N1 billion, to youth leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the gesture as insensitive to the economic hardship facing Nigerians.
The party also demanded disclosure of the source of funding for the vehicles, questioning whether public resources were involved in their purchase.
In a press statement issued on Monday, the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, said the reported distribution highlighted what the party described as a widening gap between the sacrifices demanded of citizens and the privileges enjoyed by political officeholders and party officials.
“President Tinubu asks Nigerians to endure hardship while his party distributes luxury vehicles to its political operatives,” Abdullahi said.
He added that the development suggested that while ordinary Nigerians were expected to bear the burden of economic difficulties, luxury was being reserved for individuals working to retain the APC in power.
The ADC said it was particularly concerned by reports that the vehicles were intended to support grassroots mobilisation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the party, the resources spent on the vehicles could have raised questions about the government’s priorities at a time when many young Nigerians were grappling with unemployment, limited economic opportunities and rising living costs.
“Seven APC youth leaders can receive luxury vehicles, but millions of young Nigerians are still waiting for the jobs, opportunities and economic relief they were promised. Is this the APC’s idea of youth empowerment?” the statement asked.
The opposition party further challenged the APC to explain who financed the vehicles and whether any public funds were used for their acquisition.
“Nigerians deserve to know who paid for these vehicles. Until that question is answered, the ruling party cannot dismiss legitimate concerns about its priorities,” Abdullahi said.
The ADC maintained that transparency over the funding would help address concerns about the use of resources by political parties as preparations for the 2027 elections gather momentum.
