The National Movement for Tinubu–Shettima 2027, Forward Nigeria, has criticised the African Democratic Congress (ADC) over its reaction to President Bola Tinubu’s campaign mobilisation rally in Kaduna, challenging the opposition party to present concrete policy alternatives to Nigerians.
The movement described Saturday’s rally as a demonstration of support for Tinubu’s re-election bid, arguing that the turnout reflected the mobilisation capacity of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and its supporters.
In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its National Coordinating Chairman, Prof. Rufai Ahmed Alkali, Forward Nigeria said tens of thousands of supporters attended the rally in an atmosphere it described as peaceful and orderly.
It also cited reported commendations of the rally’s turnout and organisation by various stakeholders, including Yusuf Buhari, son of former President Muhammadu Buhari, arguing that the gathering had political significance.
The group challenged the ADC to explain its policy direction, record and proposed solutions to Nigeria’s economic and security challenges, accusing the opposition party of focusing more on criticism than offering practical alternatives.
Defending Tinubu’s economic policies, Forward Nigeria said the administration’s macroeconomic reforms were aimed at addressing market distortions, improving transparency and restoring confidence in the capital market.
The movement argued that the reforms involved difficult decisions that previous administrations had avoided, adding that some beneficiaries of the former economic arrangements were now among the administration’s critics.
According to the group, Tinubu’s policies are intended to build an economy that creates opportunities for farmers, traders, artisans and young Nigerians, rather than serving the interests of a privileged few.
Forward Nigeria urged the ADC to move beyond criticism by presenting specific policy proposals, measurable targets and clear implementation timelines that Nigerians could assess.
It maintained that political parties should be judged by their policy positions, records in office and capacity to deliver on their promises.
The movement also called on supporters of Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima, as well as APC candidates across the country, to intensify public engagement and explain the administration’s policies and achievements ahead of the 2027 general election.
It expressed confidence that the Kaduna rally would be followed by wider mobilisation activities in support of the Tinubu–Shettima ticket.
Forward Nigeria said the emerging campaign would focus on defending the administration’s record and making its case to voters as preparations for the 2027 polls gather momentum.
