ADC Slams ASUU and Civil Society Groups for Silence on Controversial Certificate Forgery Legislation
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a strong rebuke against the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), student unions, and civil society organizations for their perceived inaction regarding a proposed certificate forgery law currently under consideration by the National Assembly. Bolaji Abdullahi, the National Publicity Secretary of ADC, voiced his concerns during a press briefing in Ilorin, Kwara State, accusing these stakeholders of abandoning their duty to challenge what he describes as a dangerous legislative move.
Abdullahi Questions Stakeholder Silence and Educational Standards
Abdullahi expressed deep dismay that opposition parties are left to shoulder the burden of condemning this legislation alone, labeling it as a direct affront to Nigeria's educational benchmarks. He argued that the proposed law, which reportedly aims to prevent the use of certificate forgery as grounds for contesting election outcomes, fundamentally undermines the integrity of governance and sets a perilous precedent for the nation's future.
"Before Nigeria attained independence, the struggle was collectively fought by civil society, labour unions, and student unions. It wasn't left for opposition parties alone like what we are currently experiencing," Abdullahi stated, drawing a historical parallel to emphasize the need for unified resistance.
Criticism of APC-Led Government and Electoral Integrity
He further accused the APC-led Federal Government of failing the Nigerian populace and pursuing laws designed to cling to power at any cost. Abdullahi warned that such legislation would erode public trust and potentially reduce Nigeria to "a nation of certificate forgers." To illustrate his point, he used a vivid analogy: "So, if armed robbers rob a house, as long as they are not caught at the scene, they can get away with the loot. This is essentially what the National Assembly is saying with this proposed law on certificate forgery."
Abdullahi called on the government to allow Nigerians to freely choose their leaders in the upcoming 2027 elections, urging an end to what he termed orchestrated propaganda. He criticized the current administration for lacking visionary leadership and leaving citizens in severe poverty, while also highlighting issues of insecurity, abductions, and killings as evidence of its failures.
Personal Political Ambitions and Opposition Role
Addressing rumors about his political future, Abdullahi firmly denied any plans to contest the Kwara State governorship in 2027. He emphasized his dedication to opposition politics, stating, "We'll contest in all elections in 2027, but as for whether I will throw my hat in the ring for governorship, I don't even have any hat to throw." He added that he would reject any advances from the ruling APC, affirming his belief in his role as the face of the opposition, a duty he attributes to divine assignment. "Every generation has a duty to contribute to bettering the country," he concluded.
The ADC spokesperson's remarks underscore escalating tensions over proposed electoral reforms and the perceived decline in ethical and educational standards within Nigeria's political landscape, sparking broader debates on accountability and governance.
