EVALUATING THE APC ADMINISTRATION: A Decade of Excesses and Unfulfilled Promises

 

The recent increase in the pump price of petrol has shattered any semblance of renewed hope for Nigerians. It is painful that, in less than two years under this administration, poverty has worsened, and the middle class has nearly disappeared.

The trajectory of the APC administration, initially characterized by promises of change and renewed hope, has gradually shifted, giving rise to widespread dissatisfaction and disillusionment with its governance style. The cumulative effect of economic hardship and insecurity has led to a profound sense of disillusionment among the Nigerian populace. Many citizens feel that the promises made during the APC's electoral campaign have not been fulfilled, leading to a growing skepticism regarding the government's commitment to addressing the pressing issues facing the nation. This disillusionment is further exacerbated by the perceived elitism of political leaders, who are often seen as disconnected from the realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.

When governance strays from principles of accountability, transparency, and service to the people, the path toward long-term progress becomes obstructed, leaving citizens vulnerable to economic and social instability.

At the heart of this governance crisis lies a profound disconnect between the ruling class and the ordinary Nigerian. The president, in particular, has been criticized for indulging in a lifestyle that resembles that of a monarch—opulent and disconnected from the daily struggles of the average citizen. Amid widespread economic hardship, this perceived extravagance serves as a sharp reminder of the profligate misuse of public resources that has long plagued Nigerian politics.

This stark contrast raises pressing questions about the integrity and priorities of the current administration. How can a government, which calls for sacrifice from its citizens, justify such excesses at the top? The discrepancy between the rhetoric of sacrifice and the actions of those in power suggests a lack of empathy and a disregard for the principles of good governance.

In a truly functional democracy, public officials are expected to model the values of restraint and service, particularly during times of economic hardship. In other nations, it is common for leaders to demonstrate solidarity with their people by curbing personal luxuries in difficult times. Such actions help to build trust and strengthen the bond between the government and its citizens, showing that leaders are willing to share in the sacrifices they ask of the public.

However, Nigeria’s current political landscape appears to lack this ethos of moderation and shared sacrifice. The opulence of its leaders stands in stark contrast to the daily struggles of millions of Nigerians, undermining public trust and eroding the moral authority of the government. President Tinubu’s administration, with its policies that impose significant demands on the population, has set high expectations for leadership by example. Yet, the gap between these expectations and the reality of governance only widens.

As Nigeria navigates these turbulent times, the need for a leadership style grounded in empathy, responsibility, and accountability has never been more critical. Civil society, citizens, and political actors must unite in advocating for the restoration of democratic values and the promotion of good governance. Only by realigning the aspirations of the people with the imperatives of effective leadership can Nigeria avoid the looming threat of autocracy and steer toward a more prosperous, just, and democratic future.