Independence Parade Cancellation Signals Presidency’s Disconnection from Citizens, Says ADC Spokesman

The Federal Government’s recent decision to cancel the official 65th Independence Anniversary parade has drawn sharp criticism from Bolaji Abdullahi, the spokesman for the African Democratic Congress (ADC), who views the move as further proof of a growing disconnect between the presidency and the Nigerian populace. The cancellation, announced on Monday for the traditional October 1 event in Abuja, was made even as other anniversary activities are scheduled to proceed.

In an exclusive interview on Tuesday, Abdullahi fiercely faulted the decision, arguing that the parade is a critical symbolic moment that should not be abandoned. He lamented, “This independence celebration is a remarkable milestone. It is an opportunity for Nigeria to project itself to the world and inspire the people, to renew their confidence in the country and their government. But what did the government do yet again?”

Abdullahi offered a pointed speculation regarding the true reason for the cancellation, suggesting it was driven by the President’s location. “I am sure the reason the Presidency cancelled the parade is because the President is not in Abuja. The last time I checked, he was in Lagos, unless he returned without the public knowing.” He questioned the abruptness, asking, “This independence time, everybody was looking forward to it. So, why the sudden cancellation? What happened?”

While acknowledging the potential official claim that the cancellation aligns with a “modest approach due to the economic situation,” Abdullahi dismissed this as an insincere excuse. He challenged the government’s timing, asking, “But at what point did they suddenly realize there is an economic challenge in the country? When they were sending out invitations, didn’t they know about the economic reality then? Whatever they are hiding, they owe it to Nigerians to be transparent.” He concluded his critique of the decision by labeling it as simply another case of “presidential abstinence” that fails to reflect the nation’s character.

Furthermore, Abdullahi linked this decision to a pattern of what he perceives as the government’s misplaced priorities. He questioned President Bola Tinubu’s recent failure to attend other key national events, including the passing-out parade of the Nigerian Defence Academy (NDA), where about 800 officers were commissioned. “Just two days ago, we raised the concern that the President has not attended the passing-out parade of the Nigerian Defence Academy for two years,” he noted. He expressed disbelief that the Commander-in-Chief missed the event, even failing to send a high-ranking delegate like the Chief of Army Staff, only to be in Lagos to commission the renovated National Arts Theatre. “I think all of this reflect how the government continues to diminish the country, because these issues are connected,” he concluded.