African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised the National Assembly for proceeding on recess on Democracy Day, describing the decision as disappointing and contrary to the spirit of June 12, a date widely regarded as a symbol of Nigeria’s democratic struggle.
In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party said Nigerians deserve greater accountability from their leaders and stronger democratic institutions capable of holding the government to account.
“Nigerians deserve answers. They deserve accountability. Above all, they deserve a government that delivers,” Abdullahi said.
The ADC argued that Democracy Day should serve as an opportunity for elected representatives to reaffirm their commitment to democratic principles and demonstrate their readiness to perform their oversight responsibilities on behalf of citizens.
According to the party, the legislature occupies a critical position in every democracy and should be at the forefront of efforts to strengthen accountability and good governance.
“The ADC also condemns the decision of the National Assembly to proceed on holiday on a day that marks a great moment in our democratic journey. The legislature is the bastion of democracy anywhere. A moment like this is an opportunity for the elected representatives of the people to celebrate democracy by showcasing their commitment to hold the government to account on behalf of the people they represent,” the statement read.
The party expressed disappointment that the National Assembly was not in session on a day dedicated to celebrating Nigeria’s democratic progress.
“Unfortunately, when it matters most, the APC-led National Assembly demonstrated, once again, a painful lack of historical awareness by shutting down the house of democracy on Democracy Day,” Abdullahi added.
The ADC maintained that strengthening democratic institutions and ensuring accountability remain essential to addressing the country’s governance challenges.
The statement comes amid renewed national conversations on the state of Nigeria’s democracy and the role of public institutions in promoting transparency, accountability and effective service delivery.