Politics
A Nation in Distress: How APC’s Years in Power Have Deepened Nigeria’s Crisis
A Nation in Distress: How APC’s Years in Power Have Deepened Nigeria’s Crisis
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com
“A Nation at the Brink — Why APC’s Failures Demand a New Political Direction.”
Nigeria stands today at a perilous crossroads with economically strained, socially fragmented and morally wounded. The promise that once accompanied the rise of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has given way to widespread disillusionment. What was sold as a vehicle for national renewal has, in reality, become a synonym for hardship, division and stagnation. This is not hyperbole. It is the sobering verdict of millions of citizens whose lived realities speak louder than partisan spin.
From the economy to national unity, from domestic politics to global standing, from tribal tensions to religious relationships, the APC’s record has been a catalogue of missed opportunities and deepening crises. Nigeria deserves better. Nigerians deserve another party, one that puts the people above politics, unity above division and progress above self-interest.
ECONOMIC DECLINE: Hunger, Poverty, and Eroded Hope.
The heart of any nation’s stability is its economy. On this front, the APC’s performance has been deeply disappointing. Bold reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidies and foreign exchange liberalisation were touted as necessary moves to stabilise the economy and attract investment. Yet, for millions of ordinary Nigerians, these policies have translated into unbearable hardship. Prices of essential goods have soared, inflation has blasted household budgets and poverty has become entrenched in everyday life.
Critics inside and outside Nigeria point to a stark reality: despite claims of economic recovery, the benefits remain out of reach for the majority. Food inflation, transport costs and the cost of living have escalated beyond what most families can afford. Various reports highlight that poverty and food insecurity have worsened, even as macroeconomic figures are debated.
As economist and social critic Ha-Joon Chang once reminded the world, “An economy’s success should be measured by how its most vulnerable citizens fare, not by abstract figures on paper.” Today, Nigeria’s most vulnerable are sinking deeper into deprivation.
TRIBAL AND RELIGIOUS RELATIONSHIPS: Division Instead of Unity.
Nigeria’s diversity is its strength with a mosaic of peoples, cultures and histories. Yet under the APC, this diversity too often became a source of division rather than a foundation for unity. Competing ethnic interests have periodically been manipulated for political advantage, reopening old wounds and aggravating suspicions between communities. Observers have noted that political rhetoric and strategic statements have at times undermined national cohesion, diverting attention from governance failures to age-old regional tensions.
A healthy polity celebrates differences while forging shared purpose. A government should foster cooperation across tribes and religions not exploit fault lines for political survival. Nigerian scholar and author Wole Soyinka’s enduring wisdom resonates here: “The greatest threat to a nation is the corruption of its conscience.” A leadership that fuels division corrodes the moral fabric of the nation.
REGIONAL RELATIONSHIPS: Neglect and Fragmentation.
A nation for the people must not be a nation divided. Though many Nigerians feel left behind. Regions that should be engines of growth have languished under policies that prioritise political expediency over structural development. The promise of balanced regional development has often been drowned by centralised decision-making that pays lip service to inclusivity but delivers little in tangible benefits.
Nigeria’s unity must be more than rhetoric; it must be reflected in policy outcomes, improved infrastructure and equitable opportunities for all regions. When citizens feel marginalised or unheard, the very idea of a united nation weakens.
PARTY RELATIONSHIPS: Internal Disarray and Erosion of Trust.
Political parties thrive on discipline, vision and inclusive leadership. Yet the APC has struggled with internal cohesion. Public disputes, defections and power struggles have underscored deeper conflicts over direction and purpose. Instead of engaging critics with constructive dialogue, party rhetoric too often resorts to personal attacks and defensive posturing, closing off spaces for genuine critique and reform.
Strong parties are not built on silencing dissent but on embracing diverse viewpoints and using them to strengthen policy and practice. The APC’s internal dynamics reflect a larger problem: a disconnect between leadership and the lived experiences of citizens.
THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY: Compromise Over Accountability.
A robust legislature is a cornerstone of democratic governance — a check on executive power and a voice for the people. Yet, under APC dominance, the National Assembly has often appeared more an instrument of acquiescence than one of accountability. Rather than provide independent oversight, it has been criticised for aligning too closely with executive priorities, even when those priorities fail to address fundamental public needs.
Democracy is not measured by elections alone but by the capacity of institutions to hold leaders to account and to represent the interests of all citizens not just a political elite.
INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS: Reputational Strains and Missed Opportunities.
On the global stage, Nigeria’s voice once carried remarkable moral weight in Africa and beyond. Though when domestic weaknesses are projected internationally (from economic instability to insecurity) that voice diminishes. Diplomatic engagement demands a strong, confident nation, secure in its foundations and clear in its values.
While governments change and global dynamics shift, a consistent lesson from international relations scholars is that credibility comes from internal strength. A nation beset by internal anxieties cannot project the confidence needed to lead on the world stage.
HUMANITY FIRST: Policies That Hurt the People.
Above all, governance must centre on human dignity. When policies deepen suffering, particularly for the most vulnerable, leadership has lost its moral compass. The APC era has witnessed protests, public frustration and grassroots movements demanding dignity and relief from hardship. The “End Bad Governance” protests, for example, were driven by widespread discontent with rising hunger and economic distress with realities far removed from official narratives of ‘RECOVERY’.
True leadership listens first to the voices of its people not to spin doctors or political strategists.
THE TIME FOR CHANGE IS NOW.
This is not an indictment born of bitterness, it is a call to action. Nigeria deserves a politics that places the welfare of citizens above all else. A politics that unites rather than divides. A politics that fosters prosperity, justice and opportunity for every Nigerian.
Renowned Nigerian historian and scholar Chinua Achebe once wrote that “Until the lion learns to write, every story will glorify the hunter.” It is time for Nigerians themselves (not the political elite) to reclaim the narrative of this nation.
The APC’s record across economy, unity, governance and leadership is a compelling reason to consider another party with one that builds bridges, uplifts citizens and strengthens institutions. Nigeria’s journey toward greatness cannot wait another decade in the hands of leaders who promise change but deliver distress.
Let this be the clarion call for a new chapter with one defined by responsibility, humanity, and genuine progress.
OGUN VISIONARIES READY TO HOLD SECOND EDITION OF TOWN HALL MEETING IN IJEBU ODE
As part of its commitment to participatory democracy, Ogun Visionaries for Yayi has announced plans to hold the second edition of its Town Hall Meeting on Thursday, 12th February, at RONTEX Hall Events Centre, opposite the Old Burial Ground, Ibadan Road, Ijebu-Ode, Ogun State. The event is scheduled to commence at 11:00 a.m.
This was disclosed in a press release signed by Hon. Monsur Oloyede, Chairman of the Planning Committee, who assured that the programme would be one of the best town hall engagements organised by the group.
According to him, the town hall meeting is aimed at bringing together the people of Ogun State—particularly stakeholders from Ogun West—to further enlighten and mobilise support for the 2027 gubernatorial ambition of Senator Solomon Adeola (Yayi).
The Honourable Minister of Health, Dr. Adekunle Isiaq Salako, will serve as Chairman of the Occasion, while Dr. Fatimat Oluwakemi Binta Shoge will be the Chair person
The. Mother of the Day is Otunba Dr. Aderonke Kolade Cairo, the Eeta Iyalode Bobakeye Obinrin Akileand Grand Matron of Ogun Visionaries.
The Keynote Address will be delivered by Rt. Hon. Tunji Egbetokun, former Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, while Hon. Onadeko Onanusi, former Member of the House of Assembly, will serve as Guest Speaker.
The Royal Fathers of the Day are:
Oba Adedotun Odunneye Odusanya, JP, Osijiya II, Olu of Odonselu, Alaro Kingdom, Ijebu and Oba Kazeem Adesina Salami, Ilufẹmiloba I, Osobia, Paramount Ruler of Makun-Omi.
Dr. Niyi Osoba will also feature as Speaker of the Day.Chief Segun Ojolowo Ojuko
The Ogboye of Ota Aworiland
Fmr SSA on housing to Ogun State also will deliever speech that day
Discussants for the programme include Hon. Tola Banjo, Olootu Bolaji Adeniji, and Princess Florence Feyikemi, while Chief Ajiroba Dapo Oke, Register Tai Solarin federal University of education Ijagun, will serve as Chief Reviewer/Rapporteur
The Director-General of Ogun Visionaries for Yayi, Hon. Odunleye Odunjo, will be the Chief Host of the event.
Trump’s Recognition of Remi Tinubu at U.S. National Prayer Breakfast
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“Soft Power on a Global Stage: The Symbolism Behind Trump’s Acknowledgment of Oluremi Tinubu in Washington.”
In the often-ceremonial but politically symbolic arena of international diplomacy, moments of public recognition can carry deeper meaning than their brief appearances suggest. Such was the case at the 74th U.S. National Prayer Breakfast in Washington, D.C., where United States President Donald Trump publicly acknowledged Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, describing her as a “very respected woman” and highlighting her role as a Christian pastor. The brief recognition, delivered before a global audience of political and religious leaders, has since generated attention in diplomatic and media circles. It was more than a passing courtesy; it represented a convergence of religion, diplomacy and global optics at a time when the relationship between Washington and Abuja is being redefined by security concerns, religious freedom debates and geopolitical interests.
The Moment in Washington. During his remarks at the annual gathering, President Trump paused to draw attention to the Nigerian First Lady seated among the guests. He said: “We are honoured to be joined today by the First Lady of Nigeria, a very respected woman.” The audience responded with applause as the American president acknowledged her presence, noting her pastoral role in one of Nigeria’s largest Christian denominations. The National Prayer Breakfast, held each February in Washington, is a longstanding tradition that brings together U.S. lawmakers, international dignitaries, religious leaders and policymakers for reflection on faith, leadership and public service. For decades, the event has served not only as a spiritual gathering but also as an informal diplomatic forum, where leaders from around the world interact with American officials in a setting removed from the rigid protocols of formal state visits.
Understanding the National Prayer Breakfast.
The U.S. National Prayer Breakfast dates back to the Eisenhower era and has evolved into a major international gathering that blends religion and politics. It is attended annually by members of Congress, presidents, diplomats and religious leaders from various nations. Political scientist Samuel Huntington once observed that “religion and politics remain the most powerful forces shaping human identity and conflict.” While Huntington’s work focused on civilizations and global conflict, the prayer breakfast represents the softer side of that intersection and religion used as a tool for dialogue, diplomacy and symbolic unity. Similarly, Harvard scholar Joseph Nye, known for his concept of “soft power,” argues that influence in international relations is often achieved through attraction and values rather than coercion. In that sense, events like the National Prayer Breakfast are instruments of soft power, projecting moral leadership and fostering personal relationships among global elites. Mrs. Tinubu’s presence at such an event placed Nigeria within this subtle but influential arena of faith-based diplomacy.
The First Lady’s Religious and Political Profile.
Senator Oluremi Tinubu is not only Nigeria’s First Lady but also a former three-term senator and an ordained pastor in the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of Nigeria’s largest Pentecostal denominations. Her dual identity as both a political figure and religious leader makes her presence at a faith-based diplomatic event particularly significant. It allowed Nigeria to be represented not just politically but also spiritually, aligning with the event’s core theme of faith in public life. In diplomatic terms, first ladies often play a quiet but influential role in shaping perceptions of their countries abroad. From Eleanor Roosevelt’s human rights advocacy to Michelle Obama’s global education campaigns, the soft-power impact of first ladies has historically been substantial. Mrs. Tinubu’s recognition in Washington fits into this tradition, positioning her as a symbolic ambassador of Nigeria’s religious and cultural identity.
Diplomatic Context: U.S.-Nigeria Relations.
The recognition comes at a time when relations between Nigeria and the United States have been shaped by security cooperation, counter-terrorism efforts and debates over religious freedom. Reports indicate that the event took place against the backdrop of heightened American concern about the treatment of Christians in Nigeria, an issue that has periodically influenced U.S. policy toward the country. At the same time, both nations have deepened security cooperation against extremist groups, reflecting shared strategic interests in combating terrorism across West Africa. In this context, Trump’s public praise of the Nigerian First Lady could be interpreted as both a diplomatic gesture and a signal of continued engagement between the two countries.
Symbolism and Soft Power.
Diplomatic recognition at international gatherings is rarely accidental. Even brief acknowledgments can carry layers of meaning. First, it signals respect and recognition of Nigeria’s leadership. Second, it places Nigeria in a global conversation about faith, governance and moral leadership. Third, it reflects the enduring importance of religion in international relations, especially between nations with strong religious populations. Nigeria, often described as one of the most religious countries in the world, occupies a unique position in global faith politics. With large Christian and Muslim populations, its internal religious dynamics frequently attract international attention. By highlighting the First Lady’s pastoral background, Trump’s remarks implicitly acknowledged Nigeria’s deep religious culture and the role of faith in its public life.
Reactions and Interpretations.
Media reports across Nigeria described the moment as one that placed the First Lady among prominent global faith leaders attending the event.
Some analysts see it as a routine diplomatic courtesy, while others interpret it as a sign of warming relations or a strategic nod to Nigeria’s importance in Africa. Diplomatic scholar Madeleine Albright once wrote that “symbolism is the currency of diplomacy.” In this sense, the recognition of Mrs. Tinubu was not merely a personal compliment but a symbolic gesture toward Nigeria itself.
Religion and Global Politics.
The intersection of religion and politics is not new. From the Vatican’s diplomatic influence to the role of evangelical movements in American foreign policy, faith has long shaped international relations. The National Prayer Breakfast embodies this intersection. It provides a stage where leaders speak the language of faith while engaging in informal diplomacy. For Nigeria, a country where religion deeply influences politics and society, participation in such events reinforces its global religious identity.
The Optics of Leadership.
In international politics, perception often matters as much as policy. Images of leaders being recognized on global stages can shape public opinion and national morale. For supporters of the Tinubu administration, the recognition may be seen as a sign of international respect and acceptance. For critics, it may be viewed as a symbolic gesture with little practical impact on Nigeria’s economic or security challenges. Either way, the moment underscores how international optics continue to play a powerful role in domestic political narratives.
A Moment Beyond Ceremony.
While the National Prayer Breakfast is primarily a spiritual and ceremonial event, it often carries deeper diplomatic implications. Trump’s recognition of the Nigerian First Lady placed Nigeria momentarily at the center of a global stage, reinforcing its presence in conversations about faith, governance and international cooperation. It also highlighted the enduring role of religion as a bridge in international relations, an arena where shared beliefs can foster dialogue even when political differences remain.
Summative: Symbolism, Diplomacy and the Power of Recognition.
In the theatre of global diplomacy, moments of recognition (no matter how brief) can carry enduring symbolic weight. President Trump’s acknowledgment of Senator Oluremi Tinubu at the U.S. National Prayer Breakfast was one such moment: simple in delivery, yet layered in meaning. It reflected the intersection of faith and politics, underscored Nigeria’s place in global religious diplomacy and signaled a gesture of respect between two nations bound by complex ties of security, culture and shared values. Whether viewed as routine courtesy or strategic symbolism, the moment illustrated a fundamental truth of international relations: influence is not always exercised through treaties, sanctions or military power. Sometimes, it is conveyed through words spoken across a room, applause from an audience and the quiet power of recognition. As Joseph Nye reminds us, the most effective power is often the power to attract and inspire. In Washington that morning, Nigeria found itself, however briefly, within that sphere of global attention, proof that in diplomacy, even the smallest gestures can echo across borders.
Politics
Ajadi Felicitates Olooye Adegoke On Birthday …Says His Philanthropic Nature Is Worthy Of Emulation
Ajadi Felicitates Olooye Adegoke On Birthday …Says His Philanthropic Nature Is Worthy Of Emulation
A leading Peoples Democratic Party, (PDP) gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State, Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo has felicitated the Aare Egbe-Omo Balogun of Ibadanland, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke (FCA) as he marked his birthday on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, describing him as a peace loving and one whose life is dedicated to helping the needy.
Ajadi, in a display of politics without bitterness, said that though Olooye Adegoke is also aspiring to become the governor of Oyo state, he has identified his philanthropic activities which he said showed him as a selfless politician.
In a statement he personally signed on Wednesday, Ajadi said that Olooye Adegoke as a fellow Ibadan man, and a person on the Olubadan lineage, he cherished his intellectual background and humility.
According to the statement, “I felicitate with my elder brother, a fellow of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of Nigeria (ICAN) and an Ibadan traditional Chief, Olooye Adegboyega Taofeek Adegoke on the occasion of his birthday.
“Though we are both aspiring to be the governor of our dear State, Oyo and we are in the same party, as an Apostle of politics without bitterness, I congratulate Olooye Adegoke on his birthday.
“I wish him more years in good health and in the service of Ibadanland and Oyo State in general.
“I have watched with utmost interest and I discovered that the philanthropic activities of Olooye Adegoke tally with my belief that those that have should cater for the less privileged in the society.
“I pray that God will continue to provide for him as he continues to dedicate his life towards making the downtrodden to live good lives.”
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