The Labour Party Caucus in the House of Representatives has accused President Bola Tinubu and the All Progressives Congress (APC). They allege the administration is prioritising the 2027 general elections. This focus comes at the expense of national security and the welfare of Nigerians.

Opposition lawmakers voiced their concerns. Their reaction followed a viral video. The video showed branded Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) and buses. These vehicles were allegedly for President Tinubu’s 2027 re-election campaign.

The caucus described this alleged act as insensitive. They called it unconscionable. It also showed questionable leadership, according to the group.

The caucus acknowledged the President’s re-election aspiration is legitimate. However, they stressed his primary focus should be on Nigeria’s pressing challenges.

Lawmakers Raise Concerns

Hon. Afam Victor Ogene, the caucus leader, issued a statement. He expressed deep concern and bewilderment. He noted the nation grapples with severe insecurity. Yet, the ruling party offers only superficial solutions. They fail to address the core problem effectively, he added.

Lawmakers reiterated a government’s primary duty. It is to ensure its citizens’ welfare and security.

The statement highlighted the country’s precarious state. It questioned the President’s focus. “All Mr. President thinks about is returning to power in 2027,” it read.

The caucus urged President Tinubu to address Nigeria’s “stark realities”. They reminded him of his legitimate re-election quest. Still, citizens’ immediate needs must come first, they insisted.

Beyond national insecurity, bad roads plague the nation. Journeys from Lagos or Abuja to the South-South or South-East now take a full day. These trips previously lasted six hours. The constant threat of kidnapping also faces every road user. This adds to the grim reality, the statement noted.

Call for Prioritising Citizens

Some lawmakers reflected on their own roles. Many admitted complicity, silenced by potential financial gains. The 10th Assembly itself faced strong criticism. Many described it as the worst in Nigeria’s democratic history. It has been reduced to “puppetry and rubber-stamping.” Citizens have seen no tangible benefits, critics argued. The government also faced accusations of “economic banditry.” This is for prioritising economic interests over citizens’ welfare.

This trajectory must not continue, the caucus stressed. Both the ruling party and the opposition must set politics aside. They must prioritise the welfare of the Nigerian people. Citizens form democracy’s backbone, they asserted. Their interests should always come first.