A political storm is brewing between President Bola Tinubu and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), following sharp accusations that the president is exploiting the death of former President Muhammadu Buhari to win political favour in the North.
The ADC criticised Tinubu for what it called a “stage-managed display of sympathy,” saying his recent moves — especially new federal appointments — are nothing but panic-driven efforts to regain lost trust in the region.
“Every major decision since this government came into power has sidelined the North,” the ADC said in a statement. “Now, with public anger rising, the President is rushing to make appointments like consolation prizes.”
One of the key appointments under fire is that of Muhammad Babangida, son of former military leader Ibrahim Babangida, who was recently named Chairman of the Bank of Agriculture. Other appointees from the North also include top figures in agencies such as the Oil and Gas Free Zones Authority, the Standards Organisation of Nigeria, and the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution.
But Tinubu’s media aide, Sunday Dare, hit back hard, accusing the ADC of being the ones playing politics. “This is a shameless attempt by a struggling party to stay relevant,” Dare said. “President Tinubu is focused on real progress — from economic stability to infrastructure development.”
The APC also jumped into the fray, with its National Secretary Ajibola Basiru accusing the ADC of disrespecting Buhari’s legacy. “It’s clear they’re pained by the praise Tinubu received for honouring a national icon,” he said.
Still, the ADC insists that the President’s recent gestures are too little, too late. “Our farmers are suffering, bandits are attacking northern villages, and rural communities have been abandoned,” the party stated. “These sudden appointments can’t erase over a year of neglect.”
They urged Tinubu to stop what they called “Bourdillon-style appeasement politics” and instead promote genuine inclusion, fairness, and consultation in leadership.
With tensions rising and both sides trading accusations, it’s clear that Buhari’s passing has sparked more than just national mourning — it’s triggered a fierce political tug-of-war over power, loyalty, and the future of northern support.
