ADC Attacks Tinubu Over NNPC Debt Write-Off, Raises Constitutional Concerns- Gossip News Now

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The opposition African Democratic Congress has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu over the reported cancellation of huge debt obligations linked to the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited, describing the move as unconstitutional and dangerous to Nigeria’s revenue-sharing system.

The party argued that the decision could significantly affect allocations meant for states and local governments across the country, especially at a time when many subnational governments are battling financial pressure.

ADC Questions Legality of Debt Cancellation

In a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC claimed that the Federal Government allegedly approved the removal of major NNPC debt liabilities without obtaining legislative backing from the National Assembly.

According to the party, the action reportedly involved the cancellation of a large percentage of both foreign currency and naira-denominated liabilities connected to the oil sector.

The ADC maintained that revenues connected to the Federation Account cannot be altered through executive directives alone.

Gossip News Now recalls that the controversy centers around debts associated with oil production contracts, crude supply arrangements, royalties, and other longstanding obligations within the petroleum industry.

Party Cites Constitutional Provisions

The opposition party argued that Section 162 of Nigeria’s Constitution clearly outlines how revenues generated for the Federation Account should be handled and distributed among the three tiers of government.

ADC leaders insisted that no president possesses unilateral authority to erase debts or revenues belonging to the federation without due legislative procedure.

The party also faulted what it described as the silence of the National Assembly on the issue, warning that weak oversight could encourage future constitutional violations.

According to ADC, any financial reconciliation exercise involving public revenue must still comply fully with constitutional requirements.

Concerns Over Impact on States and LGAs

ADC further warned that removing such debts from official records could reduce the amount eventually shared among the federal, state, and local governments through the Federation Account Allocation Committee process.

The party expressed fears that the development may worsen financial strain for states already struggling with salaries, infrastructure funding, and social welfare obligations.

Political observers say the issue could trigger wider debates about transparency, fiscal accountability, and the powers of the executive arm in handling public revenue matters.

Analysis: Opposition Parties Intensify Pressure Ahead of 2027

The latest criticism from ADC reflects growing political pressure on the Tinubu administration as opposition parties continue positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 elections.

Analysts believe the controversy may further deepen conversations around constitutional governance, transparency in the oil sector, and federal revenue management.

Some observers also argue that issues involving the Federation Account often generate tension because allocations directly affect governance at state and local government levels.

With economic concerns remaining a major national issue, opposition parties are expected to continue scrutinizing government financial decisions in the coming months.