The National Chairman of the Action Democratic Party (ADP), Yabagi Sani, has raised concerns about the growing discontent in northern Nigeria towards President Bola Tinubu, particularly in light of what he described as “unprecedented poverty” in the region during the last 22 months of Tinubu’s presidency.
Speaking as a guest on Channels Television’s Political Paradigm program on Tuesday, Sani emphasized that the frustrations felt by many in the North are not only directed at the president but are now being extended to his son, Seyi Tinubu.
Sani pointed out that the severe economic challenges facing northern Nigeria have intensified the resentment towards President Tinubu, with many in the region feeling that they have been disproportionately affected by the policies and economic shifts since he assumed office. He argued that despite the government’s promises of economic progress, the reality for ordinary northerners has been far from what was expected.
In a surprising twist, Sani highlighted how some northern personalities have begun to criticize Seyi Tinubu’s philanthropic efforts, which had initially been praised as part of his commitment to supporting local communities.
The ADP chairman suggested that Seyi’s charitable acts, including his involvement in various community development programs, are now being seen through a lens of skepticism and resentment by some in the north, who view his actions as incongruent with the broader economic struggles of the region.
The tension, according to Sani, stems from a feeling of disillusionment with the central government’s inability to address the persistent poverty and underdevelopment in northern Nigeria, despite claims of national growth. This, Sani believes, has led to a situation where even efforts of goodwill, such as those by Seyi, are being viewed with suspicion by some who feel that they are being used as mere distractions from deeper systemic issues.
Sani’s comments add to the ongoing political discourse about the challenges facing President Tinubu’s administration, as frustrations with the government’s policies have been growing in various regions of the country. While some of the president’s supporters continue to argue that the government is on the right path toward long-term stability, critics, especially in the north, seem to be increasingly vocal in their dissatisfaction.
The ADP leader’s remarks have ignited further debates about the socio-economic policies of the Tinubu administration, particularly as they affect the northern states. As the 2025 elections loom, the political temperature in the region appears to be rising, with the Tinubu family now facing not only political opposition but also scrutiny over how their personal efforts are perceived amid widespread economic challenges.
The situation paints a picture of how political dynamics can evolve, with anger and frustration among the electorate spilling over from national figures to their families, complicating the landscape for leaders aiming to address the needs of the Nigerian populace.
