The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) criticized President Bola Tinubu’s address on Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Day. The party said the speech lacked substance and ideas.

PDP highlighted that in the midst of mounting challenges under the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, the President’s address seemed to stray from pressing issues.

The party remarked, “The fact that Tinubu acknowledged the current severe hardships affirms the PDP’s stance: the Tinubu-led government doesn’t have the capability or empathy to lead effectively.”

In a statement by the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, the party expressed that Nigerians expected solutions to issues like national security and the crises in the electricity and petroleum sectors. They believe a competent government would’ve set forth a comprehensive plan to invigorate crucial sectors, stimulating the economy and creating jobs.

The PDP statement further stressed the absence of plans to rejuvenate vital areas such as manufacturing, agriculture, healthcare, and education. They also noted the President’s speech lacked strategies to address the declining value of the Naira, escalating unemployment, and the increasing number of citizens leaving Nigeria.

Tinubu’s omission of the ongoing violent incidents, including kidnappings and mass killings, particularly troubled the PDP. The party also remarked on the lack of reference to the abducted students in Zamfara State and other similar victims nationwide.

Discussing the President’s welfare initiative, PDP mentioned the insufficient N25,000 monthly allocation for low-grade workers for six months. They further expressed skepticism regarding the proposed Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses.

According to a report by the Daily Post, PDP concluded by emphasizing the speech’s reflection: The APC administration, they believe, lacks the vision and proficiency to govern effectively.

Previously, President Tinubu, in his Independence Day broadcast, urged Nigerians to bear the economic challenges following the removal of the fuel subsidy. He conveyed his regret about the present difficulties but emphasized that endurance is crucial for a brighter future.