Former Speaker of the House of Representatives, Yakubu Dogara, has dismissed the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a political party lacking substance, saying it cannot be taken seriously until it presents clear alternatives to the ongoing reforms of the Federal Government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Dogara made the remarks on Sunday while responding to questions during an interview on Channels Television. His comments come amid growing political debates and criticism from opposition parties over the economic and governance reforms introduced by the Tinubu administration.

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According to the former lawmaker, the ADC’s public engagements so far have failed to demonstrate people-focused ideas or policy-driven discussions. Instead, he argued that the party’s messaging appears rooted in frustration and emotional reactions rather than constructive solutions to Nigeria’s challenges.

He noted that effective opposition requires more than criticism, stressing that political parties must offer credible and practical alternatives that Nigerians can assess and compare with existing government policies.

Dogara questioned the absence of a clear ideological direction from the ADC, asking what vision or national idea the party is mobilizing Nigerians around. He maintained that without a coherent agenda, the party’s criticisms amount to mere noise with no meaningful impact on governance or public discourse.

In his words, he explained that unless the ADC is able to bring forward policies that are demonstrably better than what the current administration is implementing, Nigerians will find it difficult to take the party seriously. He added that political gimmicks, without substance, cannot translate into electoral success or national relevance.

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Dogara emphasized that opposition politics should revolve around offering solutions that address the needs of the people, rather than focusing solely on attacking those in power. He argued that governance debates should be centered on how policies improve livelihoods, strengthen security, and stabilize the economy.

The former Speaker also called on Nigerians to exercise patience with the reforms being undertaken by President Tinubu’s administration. He acknowledged that many citizens are currently facing economic hardship but insisted that the challenges confronting the country were not created overnight.

According to Dogara, issues such as insecurity, economic instability, and institutional weaknesses have developed over several years, and it would be unrealistic to expect any administration to resolve them instantly. He rejected the notion that leadership comes with a “magical wand,” noting that meaningful reforms often take time before their benefits become visible to the general population.

He further stated that since assuming office, President Tinubu has demonstrated leadership in sectors that were previously ignored or poorly managed. While admitting that the effects of the reforms may not yet be fully felt by ordinary Nigerians, Dogara maintained that the direction of governance remains positive.

Dogara’s comments reflect a broader defense of the current administration’s reform agenda, particularly in the face of growing criticism from opposition parties and concerned citizens. His stance suggests that while dissent is a vital part of democracy, it must be backed by well-thought-out policies and credible alternatives.

As Nigeria continues to navigate economic reforms and security challenges, statements like Dogara’s highlight the ongoing political divide between the ruling government and opposition voices. With political activities gradually intensifying ahead of future elections, the demand for issue-based politics and people-centered solutions is likely to remain at the center of national discourse.