APM accuses Tinubu govt of failing campaign promises, warns against electoral fraud

The National Chairman of the Allied Peoples Movement, APM, Yusuf Mamman Dantale, has accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of failing to fulfil its campaign promises, saying the realities Nigerians face are different from what was presented to them before the 2023 general election.

Dantale made the remarks on Wednesday in Abuja at the unveiling of the party’s manifesto, where he called for accountability in governance and urged political leaders to prioritise the country's interests above personal ambitions.

He questioned the political divisions among some individuals who were instrumental in bringing the current administration to power, noting that their withdrawal of support raised concerns about the direction of government.

According to him, the disareements suggest that the expectations and commitments that informed the formation of the administration may not have been met.

"We have listened to the campaign of the current administration, but what we have in reality is far different from what the campaign promises," he said.

The APM chairman also criticised what he described as restrictions on political activities in some states, particularly the imposition of excessive taxes on campaign billboards, warning that such practices could undermine political participation and fair competition.

He maintained that democracy should not be measured solely by electoral victories but also by the legitimacy that comes from public support.

"Democracy is about fair participation. It is about legitimacy after winning. It is not just about winning. But when you win and the people are not with you, what have you done? Nothing," he said.

Dantale further identified insecurity, rising living costs and the fear of kidnapping as some of the challenges confronting Nigerians, expressing concern that citizens could no longer conduct their daily activities without fear.

He specifically questioned the rising cost of petroleum products, recalling that Nigerians, including some political leaders now in government, had previously protested fuel price increases.

The party chairman warned that the country could face serious consequences if its leaders failed to address the challenges confronting citizens, stressing that Nigeria must be preserved for future generations.

He also cautioned individuals against using state institutions to undermine democratic processes, insisting that Nigerians would resist attempts to weaken the country's democracy.

Turning to the Independent National Electoral Commission, NEC, Dantale urged the electoral umpire to uphold its responsibilities and ensure that electoral activities were conducted in accordance with the law.

He said the APM would support the commission in discharging its duties but stressed that INEC must demonstrate sincerity and fairness in the electoral process.

"We will work with you, but please work with Nigeria," he said.

Dantale also commended the Inter-Party Advisory Council, PAC, and leaders of political parties for promoting peaceful political engagement, urging stakeholders to sustain efforts towards credible elections.

He described electoral fraud as one of the gravest threats to democratic governance, arguing that manipulating election outcomes deprives citizens of their constitutional right to choose their leaders.

"The worst form of banditry is electoral fraud because you deny people the right to choose what they want. This must be resisted," he said.

He called on political leaders and electoral stakeholders to protect democratic institutions and ensure that the younger generation inherits a country where democratic values, accountability and the rule of law are upheld.

APM accuses Tinubu govt of failing campaign promises, warns against electoral fraud