The opposition Labour Party and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have strongly condemned the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) over Nigeria's worsening poverty.
This backlash follows a viral video showing massive crowds of Nigerians waiting in line for food handouts at President Bola Tinubu's residence in Lagos on Christmas Eve. Senator Ali Ndume, who shared the video, highlighted the economic struggles facing the nation, stating that "poverty knows no tribe, religion, politics, or region."
The Labour Party's National Publicity Secretary, Obiora Ifoh, criticized the APC for turning Nigerians into beggars, citing the alarming statistics of poverty and hunger in the country. Ifoh noted that even the government has acknowledged the issue, and the international community has ranked Nigeria's poverty level as second only to India.
According to The Punch, Peter Obi, the Labour Party's 2023 presidential candidate, also expressed concern over the deepening poverty, attributing it to President Tinubu's harsh economic policies.
The PDP also weighed in on the issue, with Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor accusing President Tinubu's administration of "weaponizing poverty." Osadolor warned that Nigerians might reach a point of desperation where they would turn against the political elite.
However, the APC dismissed the criticisms, with National Publicity Director Bala Ibrahim defending President Tinubu's longstanding generosity and accusing the opposition of trying to incite Nigerians against the President.
According to UNICEF, Nigeria is indeed facing a severe child food poverty crisis, with around 11 million children experiencing severe food poverty. This is exacerbated by factors such as conflict, climate crises, and inequity. The organization has called for urgent action to address child food poverty and ensure that nutritious options are accessible and affordable for all.
Queues for presidential handouts at Bourdillon on Christmas Eve highlight a sobering reality:
— Senator Ndume (@Senatorndume) December 25, 2024
Poverty knows no tribe, religion, politics, or region. It is a universal challenge that demands collective action and sustainable solutions. pic.twitter.com/UFRuQ65n21
