Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the National Publicity Secretary of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has criticized what he described as the exploitation of poverty for political advantage, alleging that food items were distributed to citizens in exchange for voter identification.
Speaking in an interview with the Nigerian Tribune, Abdullahi said many Nigerians are currently facing severe economic hardship, insecurity, and uncertainty about the future. According to him, widespread poverty and insecurity have left citizens vulnerable, with reports of kidnappings, ransom payments, and increasing struggles to meet basic needs.
He argued that the government led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu has not sufficiently addressed the root causes of these challenges. Instead, he claimed that temporary relief measures, such as the distribution of rice, are being used as substitutes for long-term economic solutions.
Abdullahi alleged that in one instance in Lagos, individuals distributing rice asked beneficiaries to present their Permanent Voter’s Cards before receiving the food items. He described the alleged practice as deeply troubling and questioned the morality of using citizens’ hardship as a means of influencing political support.
According to him, leaders should focus on policies that reduce poverty and improve the standard of living rather than offering short-term assistance tied to political interests. He said using food or relief items as incentives for political loyalty undermines democratic principles and places vulnerable citizens under pressure.
The ADC spokesman also questioned how political leaders reconcile such actions with ethical and moral values, especially during periods when many Nigerians are observing religious obligations and reflecting on issues of justice and compassion.
He further expressed concern about the broader implications of such practices, warning that they could erode public trust in the political system. Abdullahi maintained that citizens deserve policies that create opportunities, improve security, and ensure sustainable economic growth rather than temporary handouts.
He concluded by saying that leaders who exploit the hardship of the people for political gain would ultimately be accountable for their actions, both politically and morally. According to him, Nigeria’s democratic system can only gain credibility when political actors prioritize the welfare and dignity of citizens over partisan advantage.
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