Former ACN National Secretary, Professor Usman Bugaje, has expressed disappointment in President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, criticizing his transformation from a progressive politician into what he described as a “monarch.” Speaking on Arise News, Bugaje argued that Tinubu’s administration has brought significant suffering to Nigerians and questioned his recent “Man of the Year” recognition by ThisDay.
Bugaje recalled his close interactions with Tinubu during their time in the Action Congress of Nigeria (ACN), highlighting the president’s shift from a man of ideas to one disconnected from progressive ideals. He also criticized the Tax Reform Bill’s handling, accusing Tinubu’s administration of bypassing proper legislative processes, which he said fostered public suspicion and undermined democratic principles.
Focusing on national priorities, Bugaje stressed the urgent need for food security. He pointed out Nigeria’s grain production deficit, which worsened in 2023 due to floods and insecurity, and urged the government to address this crisis before introducing taxation reforms. Without solving food security, he warned, peace and sustainable reforms would remain unattainable.