The Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) candidate for the Yewa North/Imeko-Afon Federal Constituency, Oluwadara Kehinde, has criticised the All Progressives Congress (APC) administration, saying its policies have subjected Nigerians to severe economic hardship and made it difficult for citizens to fully celebrate the country’s 66th Independence Anniversary.

Kehinde, in his Independence Day message, said the anniversary should not only be about ceremonies and patriotic messages but also an opportunity to examine the condition of Nigerians after 66 years of independence.

According to him, the prevailing economic hardship, rising cost of living, unemployment and insecurity have taken a toll on households, businesses and young Nigerians.

He argued that an Independence Day celebration should represent freedom, dignity and the opportunity for citizens to live decent lives, adding that many Nigerians were still struggling to meet basic needs.

Kehinde particularly criticised the APC administration over what he described as policies that had increased the burden on ordinary Nigerians, insisting that the government had not done enough to cushion the impact of economic reforms.

He said, “At 66, Nigerians should be asking themselves whether the independence we celebrate has translated into the freedom, dignity and prosperity that our founding fathers envisioned.”

The NDC candidate said the hardship experienced by Nigerians should compel political leaders to reassess their approach to governance and prioritise policies that directly improve the lives of citizens.

He also expressed concern over the situation in Yewa North and Imeko-Afon, saying residents continue to face challenges relating to infrastructure, employment, healthcare, education and economic opportunities.

Kehinde promised that, if elected, he would pursue initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, supporting small businesses, creating opportunities for young people and attracting greater attention to the constituency’s developmental needs.

He said his focus would be on practical measures capable of improving the economic prospects of residents rather than making promises without corresponding action.

The NDC candidate urged Nigerians not to lose hope in the country, saying the 66th anniversary should renew the determination of citizens to demand accountability and participate actively in choosing leaders.

He called on residents of Yewa North and Imeko-Afon to use the occasion to reflect on the future they want and support leaders committed to improving their welfare.

While President Bola Tinubu, in his Independence Day address, said the administration’s economic reforms had corrected the country’s economic course and that the next phase would focus on prosperity and reducing the cost of living, Kehinde maintained that the immediate realities confronting ordinary Nigerians should remain the primary measure of government performance.