APC: When politics becomes more important than the country

When the All Progressives Congress (APC) emerged in 2013, it was heralded as a transformative coalition poised to rescue Nigeria from perceived misrule. Comprising major opposition parties, the APC presented a united front against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), criticizing its long tenure for fostering corruption, weak governance, electoral malpractice, and a failure to address insecurity. Nigerians, weary of the status quo, placed their hopes in the APC, particularly rallying behind Bola Tinubu, a prominent figure who had consistently challenged federal governments.

Tinubu's vocal opposition, especially during the Obasanjo administration, garnered significant sympathy and positioned him as a champion against federal overreach. This narrative, coupled with widespread frustration with the PDP, fueled the APC's rapid ascent. In 2015, the party achieved a landmark victory, marking the first time an incumbent president was defeated in Nigeria's history. Muhammadu Buhari's presidency was seen by many as a democratic turning point, with expectations high for improved security, economic stability, and adherence to democratic principles.

However, the reality that unfolded under APC leadership has starkly contrasted with these initial promises. Instead of progress, many Nigerians feel the country has regressed. Insecurity has escalated, with widespread kidnappings, persistent terror attacks, and expanding banditry forcing communities to abandon their lands. The economy has suffered, marked by deepening hardship, soaring inflation, and a severely weakened naira, creating a challenging environment for businesses.

Beyond security and economic woes, concerns have mounted over the erosion of democratic institutions. Critics point to actions perceived as undermining the judiciary and suppressing dissent, such as the suspension of the Chief Justice. While some excused earlier leadership styles due to military backgrounds, the expectation was that Bola Tinubu, with his extensive experience in democratic politics and advocacy for federalism, would usher in a different approach. Yet, as president, the nation grapples with challenges that echo the very issues the APC initially vowed to eradicate.