The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) has launched a sharp rebuttal against Orji Uzor Kalu, dismissing his recent comments on Nigeria’s economy and opposition strength as “politically detached from the realities Nigerians are enduring.”
In a strongly worded statement signed by its Deputy National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Abdulmumin Ohiare Abdulsalam, the party accused the Abia North senator of attempting to downplay the country’s economic hardship while undermining the growing momentum within opposition ranks.
Kalu had, during a media briefing at the National Assembly, praised the economic direction of the current administration and suggested that opposition parties lacked the capacity to mount a credible electoral challenge.
But the NDC rejected the claim outright, describing it as “wishful thinking dressed as political analysis.”
“There is no vacuum in the opposition space. What exists is strategic consolidation, not collapse,” the party stated.
The opposition party argued that political realignments were already underway nationwide, positioning opposition forces for a major electoral contest.
“Attempts to portray the ruling party as unchallenged are deliberate efforts to manufacture dominance ahead of elections,” the statement added.
On the economy, the NDC painted a grim picture, insisting that official optimism does not reflect the hardship faced by ordinary Nigerians. It cited rising inflation, unemployment, currency instability, high borrowing costs, and worsening insecurity as signs of what it termed “deep structural stress.”
“Factories are shutting down, investment inflows remain weak, and households are under unprecedented pressure. No political narrative can erase these realities,” the party said.
The NDC also challenged pro-government voices to back their claims with verifiable data, urging greater responsibility in public discourse.
“Political leaders must refrain from statements that trivialise the suffering of Nigerians,” it warned.
Reaffirming its stance, the party disclosed that opposition groups were actively engaged in consultations and mobilisation efforts aimed at presenting a united front in future elections.
“The opposition is not dormant. It is reorganising with purpose and preparing for democratic contestation,” the statement declared.
The party concluded with a call for honesty and accountability in national conversations, urging political actors to prioritise the realities of citizens over partisan narratives
NDC blasts Kalu, vows opposition comeback ahead of elections
