The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) have issued a joint call to action, urging Nigerians to confront the nation’s mounting crises in democracy, economic management, and corruption.
At a press briefing on Friday, leaders from both parties outlined their concerns and proposed bold measures to address these pressing challenges.
Also in a significant development, the PRP and ADC announced discussions on forming a political alliance or merger, and called on all Nigerians “across all political affiliations, ethnicities, and religions—to join us in this noble struggle towards a just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria. Together, let us defend our democracy, restore our economy, and eradicate corruption for a future we all deserve”.
The two parties in a joint statement by Falalu Bello, PRP chairman and his ADC counterpart, Ralph Nwosu expressed alarm over the state of Nigeria’s democracy, criticizing recent elections marred by what they described as “electoral malfeasance.”
“Democracy is not just a concept; it requires vigilance and adherence to ethical standards,” said the PRP Chairman. “The ongoing local government elections, particularly in states like Rivers and Abia, highlight a disturbing trend where ruling parties claim near-total control, undermining the sanctity of the electoral process.”
The statement also pointed to exorbitant fees for political aspirants, such as the N20 million charged in Kano State, as evidence of democracy shifting toward plutocracy.
“This winner-takes-all syndrome threatens peaceful democratic change,” the ADC Chairman added. “We must restore faith in the electoral process to prevent anarchy.”
The PRP and ADC criticized the government’s handling of the economy, highlighting a dramatic decline in GDP from $493 billion in 2015 to an estimated $352 billion in 2024.
“Our nation, once full of promise, is now labeled the poverty capital of the world,” said the ADC Chairman. “Rising unemployment, food inflation exceeding 39%, and the exodus of investors all point to a failing economy.”
The parties condemned the misuse of funds from the removal of petroleum subsidies and other fiscal reforms, which they argued have failed to translate into tangible benefits for Nigerians.
“Instead of addressing critical needs, we see wasteful spending on luxury SUVs for legislators and a new aircraft for the President,” the PRP Chairman remarked. “These actions widen the gap between the government and its people.”
The parties called for a shift from a consumption-based economy to one focused on sustainable production, job creation, and education, particularly for the nearly 20 million out-of-school children.
“We urge President Tinubu to adopt homegrown economic policies that reflect our realities,” the ADC Chairman stated. “High interest rates of 38% stifle small and medium-sized enterprises, which are vital for growth.”
Both parties identified corruption as a root cause of Nigeria’s challenges, criticizing what they described as a culture of impunity.
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“The APC and PDP administrations have institutionalized corruption,” said the PRP Chairman. “Budget padding, embezzlement, and graft have become the norm, diverting resources from essential services like education and healthcare.”
The ADC Chairman echoed these concerns, adding, “We need a transparent electoral process, a robust judiciary, and strong anti-corruption measures to restore public confidence in governance.”
The parties outlined several key reforms, including establishing an independent electoral commission to oversee all elections, empowering anti-corruption agencies with resources and autonomy, reducing borrowing rates from 38% to a maximum of 15%, investigating fraud related to the petroleum subsidy scheme and advancing the Compressed Natural Gas initiative as a sustainable energy solution.
“These measures are not just proposals; they are necessities,” the PRP Chairman emphasized. “We cannot afford to continue on this trajectory.”
Also in a significant development, the PRP and ADC announced discussions on forming a political alliance or merger.
“This is a step toward creating a unified front to challenge the APC and work for a brighter future for Nigeria,” said the ADC Chairman. “We invite other like-minded parties to join us in this endeavor.”
Concluding the briefing, the leaders urged Nigerians across political, ethnic, and religious lines to rally behind the movement for change.
“Our democracy, economy, and national integrity are at stake,” the PRP Chairman declared. “Together, we can build a just, equitable, and prosperous Nigeria.”
The joint press conference marks a bold step by the PRP and ADC to address the nation’s challenges, signaling a new chapter in Nigeria’s political landscape.
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