ADC, NDC question FG’s launch of household empowerment project so close to elections

Opposition parties, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the National Democratic Congress (NDC), have criticized the Federal Government for unveiling a $1bn Household Prosperity and Empowerment Social Protection Project just before the 2027 general elections. The project, launched in Abuja on Wednesday, aims to support vulnerable households and provide immediate assistance during economic challenges.

However, the opposition parties question the timing of the intervention, especially with elections less than a year away.

The ADC argues that the program is a response to economic hardships under the Tinubu administration and links its launch to the popularity of Atiku Abubakar’s proposal for a targeted production subsidy. The party questions why the government only recently committed $1bn to social protection after years of complaints over rising costs. The ADC also raises concerns about the funding, administration, and the role of the First Lady in launching the initiative.

The NDC, while welcoming any genuine intervention, questions the timing of the project given the proximity of the elections. The party's National Publicity Secretary suggests that the development may elicit political interpretations and asks why the government is only now realizing the need for this intervention.