The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused President Bola Tinubu of relying on fabricated statistics to paint a false picture of Nigeria's economic situation, saying his administration's policies have plunged the country into further difficulties.
In a statement issued on Monday after President Tinubu’s media talk, the PDP National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, described the President’s comments as insensitive and out of touch with the realities facing Nigerians.
The party challenged President Tinubu to personally experience the struggles of ordinary citizens by traveling from Abuja to Lagos by road or visiting local markets.
The PDP criticized President Tinubu's unwavering advocacy for the removal of fuel subsidies without providing buffer measures to mitigate its impact.
The opposition party blamed this policy for the rising cost of living, crippling the productive sector and driving millions of Nigerians into poverty.
“President Tinubu’s statement that he has no regrets over the sudden removal of fuel subsidies confirms the disconnection of the APC from the primary objective of government – the welfare and security of citizens,” the PDP said.
The party also expressed concern over Tinubu's recognition of his administration's inability to curb oil smuggling across Nigeria's porous borders, which he said has exacerbated the economic crisis.
The PDP lashed out at President Tinubu for claiming that the economy has improved under his administration, describing his claim as “fabrication”.
The party pointed to worsening economic indicators including 34.6% inflation, the free fall of the naira to 1,700 naira to the US dollar, a 40% unemployment rate and a collapsing productive sector.
“Mr President’s claim that Nigerians are better off is contradicted by the harsh realities on the ground. “His government has failed to invest significantly in critical sectors such as agriculture, electricity, oil and small businesses, which are the true engines of economic growth,” the statement added.
The PDP also took aim at Tinubu's claim that Nigerians can now travel safely by road.
The main opposition party highlighted persistent threats of banditry, kidnapping and armed robbery, as well as deteriorating roads across the country.
“It is alarming that President Tinubu makes such claims when the reality of insecurity and deteriorating infrastructure is evident to all Nigerians. If you believe your own words, you should embark on a road trip from Abuja to Lagos to witness the truth,” the statement said.
The party referred to the recent food stampedes that claimed over 80 lives in several states as evidence of worsening poverty under the APC-led government.
He called on the administration to account for the savings from the removal of the subsidy, which he claims have not been used to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.
“The widespread food stampedes demonstrate the dangerous times our nation faces under this administration. Nigerians deserve answers and immediate relief, not fabricated statistics,” the PDP emphasized.
The PDP urged the Tinubu administration to admit its failures and take urgent steps to address Nigeria's economic and security challenges.
He also called for transparency in the use of funds and a shift towards policies that truly benefit the population.
“There is no hope in sight under the APC. “The government must stop misleading Nigerians and start prioritizing the well-being of its citizens,” the statement stated.