The Presidency has accused politicians within the African Democratic Congress (ADC) of being the “real scammers,” dismissing criticisms by former Osun State governor Rauf Aregbesola against the administration of Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
According to the Presidency, Aregbesola’s remarks attacking the federal government were misleading and lacked credibility, especially when viewed against his record in public office.
Officials argued that the former minister’s criticisms reflected opposition rhetoric rather than a constructive assessment of national governance.
A statement from the presidency described the ADC gathering where Aregbesola spoke as a platform used by politicians who had failed to outline any workable agenda for the country.
The government insisted that critics within the party were attempting to weaponise isolated security incidents and economic challenges for political advantage.
“Aregbesola has chosen to echo opposition narratives without acknowledging the consequences of his own stewardship in government,” the statement said.
“Those now shouting the loudest should first account for their records before attempting to mislead Nigerians.”
The Presidency also questioned Aregbesola’s tenure as governor of Osun State, alleging that his administration left behind severe financial strain, unpaid salaries, and policies that caused hardship for workers and retirees.
It argued that subsequent administrations in the state had been working to repair the damage from that period.
Furthermore, officials criticised Aregbesola’s performance as Minister of Interior during the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari, citing repeated attacks on correctional facilities across the country and the escape of thousands of inmates.
“For someone whose tenure witnessed numerous jailbreaks and major security breaches, it is surprising that he now seeks to lecture the current government on insecurity,” the statement said. “Nigerians have not forgotten those failures.”
The Presidency maintained that the Tinubu administration has acknowledged the temporary hardships associated with its economic reforms but insisted that several measures have already been introduced to cushion the impact on citizens.
Among the initiatives highlighted were the increase in the national minimum wage, cash transfer programmes for vulnerable households, support schemes for small businesses, and economic reforms aimed at stabilising inflation and boosting investor confidence.
Government officials also emphasised ongoing efforts to strengthen security operations, noting that the administration has continued to support the armed forces, intelligence services, and law enforcement agencies with additional equipment and international cooperation.
“The Renewed Hope Agenda is not a scam,” the statement said.
“Those making such claims are the ones attempting to deceive Nigerians because they have no credible programme for national development.”
The rebuttal was issued on April 14 by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga following remarks made by Aregbesola at a convention organised by the African Democratic Congress.