Salihu Lukman, a prominent member of the opposition coalition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has accused President Bola Tinubu of enabling governors who mismanage public funds by approving substantial federal allocations despite evidence of their misuse. Lukman’s remarks come amid widespread economic hardship and public discontent over governance in Nigeria.
Speaking on Friday, Lukman criticized the Tinubu administration for failing to hold governors accountable, alleging that both the 23 All Progressives Congress (APC) governors and their counterparts in the 13 opposition-led states have grown “arrogant and unaccountable” due to their control over party structures. He argued that this lack of accountability allows governors to treat public resources as personal property, undermining development efforts.
“President Tinubu has said the right thing about investing in poverty eradication, but what is he doing to ensure governors act responsibly?” Lukman questioned. “Instead, he rewards them for doing the wrong things.”
Lukman’s comments follow a Tuesday report from the United States Embassy in Nigeria, which highlighted governors’ lavish spending on renovating government houses amid economic challenges triggered by the removal of the petrol subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange windows. The embassy noted that such fiscal irresponsibility “fuels inequality and erodes public trust.”
Since Tinubu assumed office in 2023, Nigerians have faced soaring inflation, hunger, and a skyrocketing cost of living, largely attributed to the government’s economic policies. On Thursday, President Tinubu urged the 36 state governors to prioritize poverty alleviation and deliver tangible governance to citizens.
Lukman, a former APC member, also criticized the Tinubu administration for prioritizing the recruitment of opposition governors into the APC without ensuring their accountability. Notably, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC in 2025. “The APC’s recruitment policy lacks conditions for accountability, allowing governors to focus on personal gain rather than service delivery,” Lukman stated.
Reflecting on his former party, Lukman accused APC leaders of betraying the trust of members, describing the party as “damaged” and worse than the PDP. He expressed confidence in the ADC’s coalition, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring accountability if it produces Nigeria’s next president in 2027. “The ADC is a platform for struggle. We will organize to ensure our leaders are accountable and deliver on electoral promises as outlined in our manifesto,” he said.
Lukman’s remarks have sparked renewed debate about governance, fiscal responsibility, and the need for structural reforms to enhance accountability in Nigeria’s political system. As public frustration grows, analysts urge the federal government to address these concerns to restore trust and drive meaningful development.
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