Tinubu’s reforms: Opposition urged to move beyond criticisms

A political support group, Disciples of Jagaban, has criticised Nigeria’s opposition parties for what it described as a failure to provide credible alternatives to the economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Coordinator, Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, the group said while Nigerians continue to debate […]

A political support group, Disciples of Jagaban, has criticised Nigeria’s opposition parties for what it described as a failure to provide credible alternatives to the economic reforms being implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Coordinator, Abdulhakeem Adegoke Alawuje, the group said while Nigerians continue to debate the impact of recent reforms, the opposition has largely limited its role to criticism rather than presenting practical policy options.

The group said periods of economic reform in democratic societies usually require responsible engagement from opposition actors through clear policy proposals and constructive participation in national discourse.

Alawuje said many opposition figures havea instead focused on political theatrics and attempts to discredit government policies without presenting workable alternatives to address Nigeria’s economic challenges.

He said credible opposition parties in established democracies typically use the period before elections to build strong grassroots structures, develop policy frameworks and present a clear national vision to citizens.

He questioned what preparations the opposition is making ahead of the 2027 general elections, beyond criticism of government programmes.

The group, however, defended the administration’s ongoing reforms, describing them as necessary steps toward stabilising the economy and addressing long-standing structural problems.

It said President Tinubu demonstrated decisive leadership from the start of his administration by taking bold economic decisions despite the political risks involved.

While acknowledging that the reforms may involve short-term sacrifices, the group maintained that they are aimed at restoring economic stability and laying the foundation for sustainable growth under the administration’s Renewed Hope agenda.

It added that Nigeria’s democracy would be strengthened when political competition is driven by credible ideas, responsible engagement and a genuine commitment to national development.