The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the recent pardon granted to convicted murderers and drug traffickers.
The party says the government’s decision sends the wrong message to Nigerians and the international community.
Bolaji Abdullahi, the National Publicity Secretary of the ADC, issued the warning while reacting to the controversial presidential action.
He said the country’s image had already suffered enough damage, and releasing hardened criminals back into society only worsens the situation.
The coalition party media chief stressed that the presidential power of mercy is not a political tool.
Abdullahi said such authority should only be used when justice has clearly failed or when freedom would truly benefit the public.
He described the current development as reckless and insensitive to victims and their families.
According to him, Nigeria is battling one of the worst drug-abuse crises globally. With a national use rate of 14.4 percent, nearly triple the world average, the ADC spokesman believes pardoning drug offenders at such a time “is nothing short of a national shame.”
“Those convicted of murder and drug trafficking cannot just walk out after two years and claim remorse,” Abdullahi argued. He warned that this act may embolden criminal networks and undermine years of security efforts.
Abdullahi accused the ruling party of targeting opposition groups and weakening democratic structures. He fears Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party state where government institutions only serve the interests of those in power.
Despite recent defections of governors and top politicians to the APC, the ADC says it remains committed to challenging the current administration and defending Nigeria’s democratic rights.
The opposition chieftain noted that hardship has pushed many citizens into frustration, and the opposition has a responsibility to stand firm with them.
Nevertheless, the ADC is rallying other opposition blocs to resist what it describes as “creeping authoritarianism” and fight for a political system where power remains answerable to the people.
In a related recall, public outrage erupted earlier this month when the Federal Government granted state pardons to a group of 175 high-profile persons, including people jailed for serious drug and violent crimes.
This move has been received with a wide critism as opposition groups and political activists said could encourage more lawlessness across the country.