Insensitive — ADC blast Onanuga over recent hardship remark
African Democratic Congress Criticizes Presidential Spokesman Over Economic Comments
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned remarks made by presidential spokesman Bayo Onanuga regarding the economic challenges facing Nigeria, labeling them as insensitive.
Onanuga appeared on Arise TV on Tuesday, where he claimed he did not recognize the extent of hunger being reported by Nigerians. Following this statement, Bolaji Abdullahi, ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, expressed his concerns via social media on Wednesday, suggesting that Onanuga’s remarks indicate a disconnect between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the realities experienced by the populace.
“Mr. Onanuga’s comments are not merely insensitive; they are a startling admission of how disconnected the APC government has become from the realities of the people it governs,” Abdullahi said. He highlighted the distress faced by over 80% of Nigerians, who are struggling with basic needs such as food, education, and transportation.
Abdullahi emphasized that the current cost-of-living crisis is largely attributable to what he described as the misguided economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. He noted a significant increase in food prices, transportation costs, and a decline in the value of incomes, all of which have pushed many Nigerians into deeper poverty.
“What is particularly troubling about Mr. Onanuga’s comments is that they reveal a government that has become insular and fails to consider perspectives beyond its immediate circle,” Abdullahi said. He urged the government to engage with citizens in various sectors, including markets, farms, and schools, rather than relying solely on privileged viewpoints.
Abdullahi criticized the government for highlighting infrastructure achievements while neglecting the basic economic needs of the population. “While road infrastructure projects may be presented as accomplishments, the reality is that Nigerians cannot eat roads,” he stated.
He asserted that the administration has not met its primary responsibility of creating conditions that allow citizens to afford food, secure jobs, and thrive with dignity. Abdullahi further remarked that after three years in office, the situation for 62% of Nigerians has worsened, contrary to the government’s promises.
“The ADC believes that leadership begins with honesty,” he added. “The real question is whether this government is prepared to acknowledge the consequences of its policies and accept responsibility for its historic failures.”
Abdullahi concluded that unless the government addresses these issues, comments like Onanuga’s will only reinforce the perception that the APC is out of touch with the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
