The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has accused President Bola Ahmed Tinubu of insensitivity to the struggles of Nigerians. The criticism came after the president’s media chat, where he defended the removal of fuel subsidies without regret.

The PDP said the president’s stance shows a disconnect from the suffering citizens face daily. Debo Ologunagba, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, stated that the government has failed to address the crippling impact of the policy. He added that the administration cannot account for the proceeds of the subsidy removal while Nigerians bear the brunt of skyrocketing costs.

The party urged President Tinubu to step out of the comfort of his office and witness the realities of Nigerians. “Let him take a road trip from Abuja to Lagos, visit the markets, or walk through any city. He needs to see how people are struggling,” the PDP said.

During the media chat, Tinubu claimed the economy had improved under his administration. However, the PDP dismissed this, pointing to a naira exchange rate of N1,700 to the dollar, inflation at 34.6%, and unemployment at 40%. The party argued that these figures reveal a worsening economy rather than progress.

The PDP also condemned the president’s claim that Nigerians can now travel safely by road. The party cited ongoing insecurity, including banditry, kidnapping, and armed robbery, as well as deteriorating road infrastructure, as evidence of the disconnect between the government’s claims and the reality.

Recent food stampedes that claimed over 80 lives were also highlighted by the PDP as a sign of deep economic hardship. The party criticized the administration for failing to invest in critical sectors such as agriculture, electricity, and small businesses. These sectors, it argued, are vital to driving economic recovery and easing the burden on Nigerians.

The PDP accused the APC-led government of abandoning its responsibility to provide security and welfare for the people. It warned that without urgent and meaningful action, the hardship will worsen, pushing more Nigerians into extreme poverty.

The party’s statement reflects growing frustration with the government’s handling of the economy and security. It called for immediate measures to address the root causes of Nigeria’s challenges and restore hope to the nation.