The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration, saying democracy has failed to improve the lives of ordinary Nigerians despite 27 years of uninterrupted civilian rule.In an open letter to mark Democracy Day, the party said the true test of democracy is not years since military rule ended, but its impact on citizens’ welfare, security, and prosperity.Signed by National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi, the letter challenged Nigerians to assess the nation by their quality of life, safety, and trust in government.“Twenty-seven years after the return to democratic rule, and three years into the administration of President Bola Tinubu and the APC, we ask you three simple questions: Is your life better today than before? Do you feel safer? Do you trust the government more?” the party asked.According to the ADC, the answer is “a resounding no.”The opposition party accused the APC-led government of presiding over worsening insecurity, economic hardship, and declining confidence in democratic institutions.It said violence, kidnappings, and criminal activity continue to spread nationwide, leaving citizens feeling unprotected.“Every single day, Nigerians are killed in their dozens and kidnapped in their hundreds. Bandits openly negotiate ransoms and set the terms of co-existence,” the statement read.“The most important job of government is to protect citizens. But is there anyone today who believes this government can protect anybody?”The ADC argued that the failure to guarantee security has displaced communities, disrupted education, and deepened fear.The party also highlighted a severe cost-of-living crisis, with millions struggling as prices of food, transport, housing, healthcare, and education climb.“Workers watch their incomes lose value. Small businesses struggle to survive. Parents are forced to choose between feeding their families, paying school fees, and meeting basic needs,” it added.The ADC expressed concern over youth unemployment and the growing “japa” trend. “Our young people, who should drive national renewal, face a future of uncertainty. Many cannot find meaningful work. Many no longer see a future within our borders,” Abdullahi said.The party maintained that Nigeria’s problems stem from poor leadership and failed policies, not unavoidable circumstances.“This APC government has no solution to insecurity. All it offers are condolence messages and empty threats to criminals. It has no answer to the cost-of-living crisis eroding your dignity. All it has is propaganda and promises of a better future,” the statement said.ADC’s Proposed Alternatives
The party proposed intelligence-led, technology-driven, and community-based security measures. It said security spending should be judged by results, not budget figures, and citizens must live and work without fear.Economically, the ADC pledged policies to lower energy costs, support small businesses, protect low-income earners, and boost food production to cut prices.It also promised reforms to strengthen transparency, accountability, and public trust in democratic institutions.The party concluded that government should be measured by tangible results: better security, economic prosperity, and renewed hope.“Honouring June 12 means building a democracy that delivers security, opportunity, and prosperity for all Nigerians,” the ADC said.