The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has launched a sharp critique against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), accusing it of deepening economic misery and manipulating state institutions to stifle political competition. Usman Bugaje, who chairs the SDP’s Convention Planning Committee, delivered these remarks during the party’s national convention and presidential primaries held in Bauchi.
Bugaje alleged that under APC governance, Nigeria has been drained of its resources, leaving citizens to grapple with rampant insecurity, exorbitant fuel costs, widespread joblessness, and erratic power supply. He painted a grim picture of Nigerians returning to dark homes and struggling to afford basic meals amidst severe economic strain.
The SDP chieftain further accused the APC of weaponizing institutions like the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to serve partisan interests. He claimed these bodies have been reduced to tools for unscrupulous politicians, thereby undermining the democratic process.
Drawing parallels with the regime of late military ruler Sani Abacha, Bugaje warned that attempts to silence opposition and shrink democratic space would fail, as history shows such measures are unsustainable. He asserted that the current political climate resembles the repressive tactics of the past.
Positioning the SDP as a viable alternative, Bugaje emphasized that unlike established parties controlled by wealthy elites, his party would field competent and energetic candidates. He called on Nigerians to rally behind the SDP’s convention theme: Building a People’s Coalition to Secure Our Homeland and Defeat Poverty.
Bugaje concluded by urging ordinary citizens to prepare for sacrifice, courage, and determination ahead of the 2027 general elections, stressing that meaningful change requires collective effort.