The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has declared that there is a national “consensus” among Nigerians that the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led government has failed to deliver on its promises.
Speaking on Friday, January 16, 2026, during an interview on Channels Television’s “Politics Today,” the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, argued that the ruling party has left the country in a state of unprecedented crisis.
The “Diplomatic Vacuum”
A major point of contention raised by Abdullahi was the prolonged absence of Nigerian ambassadors in foreign missions. He criticized the government for failing to post envoys nearly three years into the administration.
- Vacant Seats: Abdullahi noted that despite the National Assembly clearing names last year, not a single ambassador has been posted.
- The Consequences: “If they post them today, before they get their letter of credence, maybe that will be the end of 2026,” he warned, describing the situation as a national embarrassment that weakens Nigeria’s global standing.
- Outsourced Diplomacy: The ADC recently slammed the government for allegedly spending $9 million on U.S. lobbying firms, arguing that this wouldn’t be necessary if proper ambassadors were in place to represent Nigeria’s interests.
Opposition’s New Agenda
Abdullahi, a former minister, stated that the newly restructured ADC—which now includes heavyweights like Peter Obi, Atiku Abubakar, and Rotimi Amaechi—is ready to provide a “scary” alternative to the current administration.
“Nigerians have agreed that this government has failed. It is a consensus. Our responsibility now is to convince Nigerians that we have alternative ideas and can do better,” Abdullahi stated.
Key Criticisms Raised
- The “Language of Banditry”: Abdullahi accused the administration of running the country with a “smash and grab” mindset, particularly criticizing alleged forgeries of laws already passed by the National Assembly.
- Misplaced Priorities: He lamented that while millions cannot afford food or fuel, the government is focusing on image management and lobbying rather than security and welfare.
- Governor Allocations: The party also questioned why the increased allocations to state governors (following the fuel subsidy removal) have not reflected in the lives of the citizens at the grassroots level.
