President Bola Tinubu has accused opposition parties of contributing to Nigeria’s hunger and poverty, defending his administration’s economic policies during the All Progressives Congress (APC) 2027 presidential campaign flag-off in Kaduna on Saturday.
Addressing supporters at the Kaduna Township Stadium, Tinubu dismissed criticism of his government’s handling of the economy, insisting that his administration was working to address the hardship Nigerians have experienced.
The President also appealed to voters to renew his mandate, promising prosperity, continuity and further progress if re-elected for a second term.
Tinubu said his decision to seek another term was driven by a commitment to fulfil his promises to Nigerians. He challenged opposition leaders who had criticised the economic situation to explain their role in the country’s past challenges.
“I hear my opponents talking about hunger and poverty. Who created it? They did! They created hunger, they created poverty, we are trying to eradicate it,” the President said.
Tinubu Defends Fuel Subsidy Removal
The removal of the petrol subsidy remains a contentious issue ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with opposition figures, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, proposing its restoration if they win the election.
However, Tinubu defended his administration’s decision to end the subsidy, urging supporters not to be misled by opposition promises.
He argued that the policy had helped address corruption, fraudulent invoicing and the smuggling of petroleum products, which he associated with the former subsidy regime.
“Fuel subsidy is in our past: no more corruption, no more falsification of invoices, no more lies, no more smuggling of fuel,” he said.
Shettima Highlights Tinubu’s Political Support in the North
Vice President Kashim Shettima used the occasion to emphasise Tinubu’s longstanding political relationships with leaders from northern Nigeria.
Shettima recalled Tinubu’s support for Atiku Abubakar during the 2007 presidential election, Nuhu Ribadu in 2011, and former President Muhammadu Buhari in the 2015 and 2019 elections.
According to the Vice President, Tinubu had consistently supported northern political figures seeking the presidency, demonstrating his longstanding political connections with the region.
Shettima’s remarks appeared aimed at reinforcing the APC’s appeal to northern voters as the party prepares for the 2027 general election.
Kaduna Governor Raises Concerns Over AI Campaign Tactics
Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani also addressed the gathering, warning APC supporters to remain alert to what he described as evolving opposition campaign strategies.
He alleged that opposition parties had moved beyond traditional social media platforms, such as Facebook and Twitter, to using artificial intelligence (AI) in their political campaigns.
Sani urged party supporters to exercise caution and remain vigilant amid the growing use of digital technologies in political communication.
APC Leaders Rally Support for Tinubu’s Second Term
Several senior APC figures attended the campaign flag-off, including campaign Director-General Senator Abdulaziz Yari, Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Minister of Works Dave Umahi, First Lady Remi Tinubu and APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda. Governors from the North-West and other party leaders were also present.
The stadium was filled with supporters dressed in party-branded outfits and customised hats, waving APC flags and cheering speakers throughout the event.
Tinubu also praised APC governors for their performance, saying they had been paying salaries regularly and pursuing development projects in their respective states.
He reiterated his promise of prosperity to Nigerians, particularly young people, and urged voters to support his bid for a second term.
The Kaduna event comes as political parties begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 general election, with economic hardship, fuel subsidy policy and the cost of living likely to remain major issues in the contest.
