ADC Accuses APC, FG of Attempting to Dismantle Buhari’s Legacy Amid Public Mourning

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Federal Government of attempting to erase the legacy of former President Muhammadu Buhari over the last two years, despite now posturing as chief mourners following his passing.

In a statement issued on Monday by the ADC’s Interim National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party condemned what it described as “political hypocrisy” and alleged opportunism in the wake of the former President’s death.

“The party and the government that had done everything in the last two years to tarnish his records, dismantle his legacies, and blame him for every one of their failings, are now posturing as the chief mourners at his burial,” the statement read.

The ADC said it found the current show of grief by Buhari’s political successors disingenuous, especially given what it described as a sustained campaign by the APC-led government to discredit his achievements since he left office in 2023.

According to the party, Buhari had been blamed for most of the country’s economic and security challenges by the same administration now seeking to honour him.

“It is unfortunate that those who have worked tirelessly to distance themselves from Buhari’s administration and disown his policies are now shedding crocodile tears,” the statement added.

The ADC warned against what it termed the politicisation of the former President’s death, urging Buhari’s family and supporters to be vigilant in guarding against efforts to exploit his passing for political gain.

The opposition party also called on Nigerians to remember Buhari for his personal virtues and service to the nation.

“As a nation, we must remember Muhammadu Buhari for his integrity, humility, and unwavering commitment to public service. These should be the yardsticks by which we assess future leaders,” the ADC noted.

The party urged the public to focus on preserving Buhari’s legacy based on facts and contributions, rather than allowing political interests to distort history.

Buhari, Nigeria’s former military Head of State and two-term civilian President, died on Sunday in a London clinic at the age of 82. Funeral arrangements are expected to be announced in the coming days.