(DDM) – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s October 1 Independence Day broadcast, describing it as a budget review rather than a unifying national address.
DDM gathered that Bolaji Abdullahi, spokesperson of the ADC, said the President missed the essence of Nigeria’s 65th Independence anniversary.
According to Abdullahi, Tinubu focused more on listing his administration’s achievements than reflecting on the country’s history, struggles, and unity.
“Listening to the President, you will think he was delivering his budget speech or performance review, rather than speaking to the history of a nation like Nigeria,” Abdullahi stated.
The President had highlighted reforms and economic gains made by his government over the past 28 months, stressing resilience in the face of challenges.
But the ADC maintained that Independence Day was not about one government’s scorecard.
Instead, Abdullahi said, the occasion required inspiration, unity, and reflection on the nation’s founding struggles.
He faulted the President’s speechwriters, accusing them of failing to understand the historical weight of the moment.
“The President’s speech writers failed to connect with the significance of Independence Day,” he emphasized.
He argued that Tinubu’s address lacked historical depth, inspirational tone, and a clear vision for the country’s future.
Instead, Abdullahi said the President spoke in a campaign-style manner, more as a partisan leader than a statesman.
He also dismissed the economic reforms touted in the speech as “superficial and propaganda.”
According to him, the claims do not reflect the daily realities of Nigerians battling poverty, hunger, and inflation.
The ADC further criticized the President for making only a passing reference to insecurity.
Abdullahi stressed that Nigerians live in constant fear, and the speech failed to assure citizens of safety and national cohesion.
“For me, it’s a big disappointment that the President did not understand the historical significance of this moment,” Abdullahi concluded.
He added that a true Independence address should connect past struggles with present challenges while inspiring hope for the future.
Political observers note that this is one of the strongest criticisms Tinubu has faced on an Independence anniversary since assuming office.
The ADC, which has been vocal about governance shortcomings, insists that Nigeria needs leaders who rise above politics to address national issues.
The backlash reflects growing public debate over the role of Independence Day speeches in shaping national unity.