'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER – The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has alleged that over N25 trillion has been siphoned by leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and government officials under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. The opposition party made this claim in a press statement issued on December 31, 2024, as it outlined its expectations for the New Year and criticized the government's handling of the economy, insecurity, and corruption.
In its statement, the PDP charged President Tinubu to use his New Year address to provide tangible solutions to Nigeria’s pressing challenges, including the skyrocketing prices of fuel, widespread hunger, and pervasive insecurity. The party lamented that, despite previous promises, Tinubu’s administration has failed to implement policies that improve the living standards of Nigerians.
“Previous addresses by Mr. President in the last 18 months have only offered hopeless rhetoric, unsubstantiated statistics, and false promises without concrete mechanisms to address insecurity, resuscitate the economy, create jobs, and ensure credible elections,” the PDP stated.
The PDP expressed outrage over what it described as the unbridled corruption and reckless spending within the APC-led government. According to the party, over N25 trillion has reportedly been looted by APC leaders, turning government agencies into "Automated Teller Machines (ATMs)" for personal gain.
The PDP demanded accountability for funds accrued from the removal of fuel subsidies and called on the president to order investigations and recover the stolen funds.
“Mr. President should come clean on his public commitment to fight corruption by ordering an investigation and recovery of the over N25 trillion reportedly stolen by APC leaders and officials,” the statement read.
Criticism of Luxury Lifestyle Amid Widespread Poverty
The party condemned APC officials for flaunting a luxurious lifestyle while Nigerians endure worsening poverty, hunger, and insecurity. It accused the administration of insensitivity to the plight of the masses, highlighting the economic and social hardships that have driven some citizens to desperate measures, including emigration and even suicide.
“The last 18 months have been the most excruciating period for Nigerians since the Civil War,” the PDP said, blaming what it termed "anti-people policies" for the worsening conditions.
### Call for Transparency and Hope
The PDP urged Nigerians to remain optimistic and law-abiding as they enter 2025, calling for unity in defending constitutional democracy and demanding transparency in governance. The party reaffirmed its commitment to restoring Nigeria to a path of stability and economic prosperity.
The statement concluded with a caution to the APC to abandon its alleged practices of corruption and disregard for the populace, warning that such attitudes could further inflame public discontent.
The PDP saluted Nigerians for their resilience and encouraged them to approach the new year with determination to resist suppression and violations of their rights. It also renewed its promise to work toward a brighter future for the nation.
As Nigerians look forward to 2025, the PDP’s allegations and demands set the stage for continued political debates over governance, corruption, and accountability in the country.
