Nigeria’s PDP Slams APC's Governance and Calls for Change Amid Rising Unrest

 

In recent times, the political landscape in Nigeria has been ablaze with heated debates, protests, and widespread discontent. At the heart of this unrest is the opposition People's Democratic Party (PDP), which has not minced words in its criticism of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The PDP has accused the APC-led federal government of implementing "anti-people" policies that have made life unbearable for Nigerians. As nationwide protests against hunger and poor governance continue to gain momentum, the PDP has called for an immediate review of these policies.

The Nation's Plight Under APC's Rule

The PDP's concerns reflect the growing frustration among Nigerians grappling with the harsh realities of daily life under the current administration. According to the PDP, the state of the nation is a clear indication of the APC's mismanagement and failure to deliver on its promises. The recent wave of protests, tagged #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, is a testament to the public's dissatisfaction with the status quo.

In a recent appearance on *The Morning Show*, PDP chieftain and publisher of *Ovation* magazine, Dele Momodu, didn't hold back in his critique of the current administration. He expressed his dismay at the state of governance in Nigeria, lamenting the widespread poverty and the disconnect between the government and the people. Momodu argued that even President Bola Tinubu is surrounded by "liars" who refuse to acknowledge the severity of the situation.

Governance Issues: The Root Causes

Momodu pointed to several key issues that he believes are contributing to the country's current predicament. Chief among these is the government's failure to curb profligacy and reduce the cost of governance. He criticized the administration for its bloated cabinet, excessive appointments, and lavish spending, all of which he believes are draining the nation's resources at the expense of the common man.

The PDP stalwart also called for practical solutions rather than empty rhetoric. He urged the government to focus on tangible actions, such as reducing the size of the cabinet to the constitutionally required minimum, cutting unnecessary expenditures, and eliminating wasteful spending on luxury items like presidential jets.

Edo State Politics: A Battle for Leadership

The conversation also turned to the forthcoming governorship election in Edo State, where the PDP and

APC are once again locking horns. Momodu took aim at the APC's candidate, describing him as "unsellable" and criticized the ruling party for its divisive tactics. He condemned the APC for focusing on irrelevant issues, such as whether a candidate can speak the Edo language, rather than on their qualifications and ability to lead.

Momodu's ties to Edo State, despite his Ife heritage, gave his words additional weight. He dismissed the idea that a candidate's ability to speak a local language should determine their eligibility for office, calling it a "bad taste" argument. Instead, he argued that the focus should be on the candidate's track record, contributions to nation-building, and overall capability.

Reflections on National Leadership and Personal Politics

In his reflection on the current administration, Momodu didn't shy away from discussing his personal relationship with President Tinubu. Though they were once close, Momodu revealed that they haven't spoken in over three years. This, he said, is a sign of his disillusionment with the president's leadership and the direction in which the country is headed.

He also addressed criticisms that his opposition to the APC is driven by personal grievances, particularly in the wake of the 2023 election. Momodu brushed off these accusations, stating that his critiques are rooted in principle, not personal vendettas. He highlighted his history of speaking out against the APC's policies, even when he had no political affiliations.

A Call for Sustainable Governance

In concluding his remarks, Momodu emphasized the need for sustainable governance practices in Nigeria. He called on politicians to focus on creating lasting legacies rather than relying on politics as a career. Drawing from his own experience, he discussed his plans to open the Dele Momodu Leadership Center, a project aimed at fostering academic research and leadership development.

Momodu's vision is for Nigeria to be a place where leaders are committed to serving the people, not enriching themselves. He urged other politicians to follow suit, focusing on philanthropy and public service rather than the pursuit of power for its own sake.

As the PDP continues to press for change, the question remains: will the APC respond to these criticisms and take steps to address the concerns of the Nigerian people? Or will the nation continue down its current path, with growing unrest and dissatisfaction leading to further instability? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: the voices of the opposition are growing louder, and the demand for better governance is not going away.