The Nigerian Presidency has strongly rejected allegations from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) accusing President Bola Tinubu of exploiting former President Muhammadu Buhari’s death for political advantage.
The ADC criticized Tinubu’s recent appointments, notably that of Muhammad Babangida, the son of former military ruler Ibrahim Babangida labeling them a “desperate and cynical attempt” to regain political trust, especially in Northern Nigeria.
The party also condemned what it called a “stage-managed” effort by Tinubu to attract sympathy in the North, a region where Buhari wielded considerable influence.
In response, Sunday Dare, the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, dismissed the ADC’s claims as “laughable” and accused the opposition of political opportunism by capitalizing on Buhari’s passing for attention rather than the government.
Dare further highlighted the Tinubu administration’s accomplishments, citing currency stabilization, increased oil production, infrastructure development, and new social programs like the NELFUND student loan and Consumer Credit Scheme.
Ajibola Basiru, the APC National Secretary, also condemned the ADC for politicizing the burial of a national icon and urged Nigerians to reject what he described as “heartless antics” by political opponents.
On the other hand, ADC’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, maintained that the northern appointments are mere political tokenism, made only after a year marked by neglect and unpopular moves such as subsidy removal.
He called on the government to pursue genuine inclusion and broader consultation.
This dispute highlights the deep political divisions as Nigeria continues to mourn its former leader.