TDF Defends Tinubu, Faults Baba-Ahmed Over Hardship Claims
Oru Leonard
A pro-government advocacy group, the Democratic Front (TDF), has dismissed criticisms by Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, insisting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains responsive to the plight of Nigerians despite prevailing economic challenges.
In a statement issued by its Chairman, Mallam Danjuma Muhammad, and Secretary, Chief Wale Adedayo, the group rejected Baba-Ahmed’s assertion—made during a television interview—that the President is disconnected from the realities facing citizens. The TDF described the remarks as “erroneous” and lacking in balanced analysis.
The group argued that many of the economic difficulties highlighted by Baba-Ahmed predate the Tinubu administration, noting that structural issues such as fuel subsidy and multiple exchange rate regimes had long constrained Nigeria’s economy before May 2023.
According to the statement, while acknowledging that economic data may not always align with citizens’ lived experiences, it is misleading to assess the impact of the administration’s reforms without considering broader socio-economic variables and historical context.
TDF further stated that recent macroeconomic indicators show improvement, pointing to a decline in inflation figures and increased industrial activity. It also credited ongoing reforms for strengthening public finances, including higher allocations to states through the Federation Account.
The group attributed recent increases in petrol prices partly to global factors, including tensions in the Gulf region, stressing that such developments are beyond the control of the Nigerian government.
It also highlighted initiatives such as student loan schemes and efforts to boost domestic refining capacity as evidence of policies aimed at easing economic pressure on citizens.
While urging Baba-Ahmed to provide more constructive engagement, the group emphasized that state and local governments must take greater responsibility in addressing hardship at the grassroots, given their increased financial allocations.
TDF concluded that criticism of the President should be balanced with accountability at sub-national levels, noting that tackling economic hardship requires coordinated efforts across all tiers of government.
