ADC Denounces Tinubu’s 90-Day Relief Plan as Political Maneuvering

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s African Democratic Congress (ADC) has sharply criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recently announced 90-day cost-of-living relief plan, calling it a politically motivated “election bait.”

With the presidential election just 86 days away, the ADC is demanding clarity on how this plan will genuinely benefit ordinary Nigerians.

During a press conference, Phrank Shaibu, the ADC’s Director of Strategic Communication, expressed doubts about the plan’s sincerity, stating that its timeline extends well beyond the election date.

“This government is asking families to wait for relief until after the votes are counted,” he asserted.

The relief initiative outlines five main priorities: food affordability, tax harmonization, completion of key projects, removal of investment bottlenecks, and household support.

However, Shaibu contended that these challenges have existed for far too long and should have been addressed earlier.

He also criticized the administration’s approach to petrol subsidy removal, arguing that the immediate burdens have fallen on Nigerians without adequate protections for vulnerable households.

“You can’t set a 90-day deadline on hunger and call it a viable economic strategy,” he said.

In addition, Shaibu raised concerns about Tinubu’s upcoming campaign visit to Kaduna, citing the state’s troubling history of civilian casualties from military operations and ongoing insecurity.

He challenged the president to detail what has been done to assist victims of these incidents.

Addressing the issue of fuel-price relief, Shaibu reported that he found no discounts available at NNPC stations, contradicting the government’s claims.

He called for transparency regarding the discount program’s implementation.

On the specifics of the relief plan, Shaibu demanded clarity on how the government plans to achieve food affordability and support households.

He urged for the publication of eligibility criteria and funding arrangements for proposed household assistance.

Moreover, he raised alarms about a registration form linked to a campaign initiative, questioning the necessity of collecting sensitive personal information from citizens.

“No one should have to give up their personal data for public relief,” he insisted.

Shaibu emphasized Atiku Abubakar’s vision for Nigeria, which focuses on responsible public spending and targeted household assistance, aiming to create sustainable economic policies that improve purchasing power.

The ADC concluded by urging Nigerians to hold the government accountable, demanding evidence that promised relief will effectively reach households and remain impactful beyond the elections.