President Bola Tinubu’s second anniversary in office has ignited a wave of reactions across Nigeria’s political and regional landscape. While the Presidency and the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) touted significant achievements, including improved security and economic progress, opposition voices such as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Afenifere, the Middle Belt Forum (MBF), the Ijaw National Congress (INC), and the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) have strongly disagreed.

On May 29, President Tinubu highlighted milestones from his two-year tenure, claiming the economy had grown and external reserves had soared from $4 billion in 2023 to over $23 billion by the end of 2024. He defended the removal of fuel subsidy and naira devaluation as necessary steps to stabilize the economy.

However, these claims were met with sharp criticism from political opponents and regional leaders, who argue that the administration’s policies have only deepened hardship for ordinary Nigerians.

Atiku: Tinubu’s Government Has Failed Nigerians

In a strongly worded statement, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar described the Tinubu-led government as undemocratic, economically reckless, and indifferent to the plight of Nigerians. He warned that the country is at risk of slipping into a one-party state where dissent is suppressed and accountability eroded.

Atiku, the 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), stated:

“Policy after policy under this administration targets the poor while benefiting the rich. From healthcare to education to basic services, the wealthy enjoy VIP treatment while the rest are left behind.”

He criticized the administration’s handling of public debt, citing an increase from ₦49 trillion in 2023 to ₦144 trillion a 150% jump in just two years.

“The justification for new borrowing to fund the 2025 budget is weak and dishonest. It was the government’s reckless removal of fuel subsidy that triggered the current hardship.”

Tinubu's Debt Strategy “Reckless and Immoral” — Atiku

Atiku further slammed Tinubu’s proposal to secure $24 billion in additional loans, describing it as “unsustainable and immoral.”

“Nigeria is now caught in a vicious debt cycle that mortgages the future while neglecting infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation. This reckless borrowing must stop.”

NNPP: No Real Difference Between Military and Civilian Rule

In a separate statement, Mr. Olufemi Oguntoyinbo of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) decried the lack of democratic ethos among elected officials.

“Despite 26 years of democratic rule, some leaders still govern like military dictators, suppressing public will and neglecting accountability.”

Afenifere: Economic Reforms Have Deepened Hardship

Pan-Yoruba socio-political group, Afenifere, also criticized the government’s economic reforms. Its National Organizing Secretary, Mr. Kole Omololu, noted that food inflation, transportation costs, and rent hikes have eroded the standard of living.

“Afenifere urges more investment in low-cost housing, support for local manufacturers, and targeted subsidies. State governments must embrace cooperative federalism to drive real economic progress.”

On security, Omololu acknowledged some improvements but warned that terrorism and kidnapping remain grave threats.

Ijaw National Congress: Niger Delta Still Neglected

President of the Ijaw National Congress (INC), Prof. Benjamin Okaba, rejected the midterm report, describing it as “subjective and detached from reality.”

“Despite claims of progress, oil-rich communities remain neglected, underdeveloped, and environmentally degraded. True national growth requires inclusive policies and honest engagement with marginalized regions.”

Middle Belt Forum: Tinubu's First Two Years “A Disaster”

Dr. Bitrus Pogu, President of the Middle Belt Forum, described Tinubu’s administration as directionless and harmful to the average Nigerian.

“Tinubu removed the fuel subsidy without implementing cushioning measures, then devalued the naira, plunging millions into poverty. He continued Buhari’s nepotistic style of leadership and lacks a clear national development agenda.”

Pogu also condemned the proposed RUGA settlements and said the Middle Belt would resist any such plans.

Coalition of Northern Groups: Tinubu Has Not Reduced Hardship

While the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) acknowledged improvements in national security, its President, Jamilu Charanchi, criticized the administration’s failure to reduce economic hardship.

Wabara: Tinubu’s Economic Claims “An Insult”

Former Senate President Adolphus Wabara dismissed the President’s economic progress claims as misleading.

“The reality on ground contradicts the administration’s rhetoric. Nigerians can’t afford basic needs. The market, not press statements, will reflect true economic revival.”

Presidency Defends Tinubu, Says Democracy is Thriving

In response to the criticisms, the Presidency dismissed claims of failure or authoritarianism. Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Mr. Bayo Onanuga, insisted that Nigeria’s democracy is thriving.

“There is freedom of speech and association. Opposition parties are active. The exchange rate is more stable than in previous years, and inflation is easing due to declining food prices.”

He added that the Tinubu administration has made significant progress and promised even greater achievements in the remaining half of the President’s term.

Conclusion

As President Tinubu crosses the midpoint of his term, public opinion remains sharply divided. While his administration highlights economic recovery and security improvements, critics argue that daily hardship, debt burdens, and democratic backsliding paint a much grimmer picture. Whether the coming years will bring relief or reinforce discontent remains to be seen.