The Chairman of the Convention Planning Committee of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), Usman Bugaje, on Saturday accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of plunging Nigerians into poverty and using state institutions to weaken opposition parties ahead of the 2027 elections.
Bugaje made the remarks while speaking at the SDP National Convention and Presidential Primaries held in Bauchi.
He alleged that the APC had “stolen the country high and dry” while Nigerians continue to battle insecurity, rising fuel prices, unemployment and poor electricity supply.
According to him, many Nigerians now return to homes without electricity and struggle to afford food despite enduring severe economic hardship.
The SDP chieftain also criticised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), alleging that “national institutions like the judiciary and democratic institutions like INEC have become tools in the hands of unscrupulous politicians.”
Bugaje further accused the ruling party of attempting to suppress opposition voices and shrink the democratic space.
He likened the current political atmosphere to the era of former military ruler Sani Abacha, saying past attempts to silence dissent in Nigeria ultimately failed.
The SDP leader said his party was offering Nigerians a fresh alternative, insisting that unlike established parties allegedly dominated by “big men and deep pockets”, the SDP would present competent and energetic candidates.
He urged Nigerians to support the party’s vision of “Building a People’s Coalition to Secure Our Homeland and Defeat Poverty,” which is the theme of the convention.
Bugaje added that meaningful change would require sacrifice, courage and determination from ordinary Nigerians ahead of the 2027 general elections.
