**Nigeria's Poverty Rate Hits 63%: ADC Blames Tinubu's Economic Policies** A recent report has painted a gloomy picture of Nigeria's economic situation, with the African Democratic Congress (ADC) pointing fingers at President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration. According to the ADC, the 63% poverty rate in Nigeria is a clear indication that Tinubu's economic policies have failed to improve the lives of ordinary citizens. The ADC made this assertion in a statement issued by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, citing a report presented at a policy dialogue in Abuja. The report revealed that the poverty rate in Nigeria has increased from about 50% before the removal of petrol subsidy to 63% afterward, with the higher costs of fuel and transportation driving up prices of essential goods like food and transportation. The ADC described this development as a "damning verdict" on the government's economic approach, emphasizing that many Nigerians are already feeling the impact of this hardship in their daily lives. The cost of living has skyrocketed, and people's purchasing power has declined significantly. The ADC also questioned the government's earlier justification for removing the fuel subsidy, which was supposed to redirect funds to critical sectors like health and education. However, three years later, there is no evidence that these sectors have been better funded, and Nigerians have not seen any real benefits from this policy. Independent surveys have shown that Nigerians are dissatisfied with the current direction of the country, and the ADC believes that the government's economic policies are to blame. As the country grapples with these economic challenges, the ADC is calling on the government to rethink its economic approach and prioritize the welfare of ordinary citizens. In the context of Nigeria, where poverty and inequality are already significant issues, a 63% poverty rate is a worrying trend. The government's economic policies, including the removal of petrol subsidy, have been criticized for exacerbating these problems. As the ADC points out, the consequences of these policies are being felt by millions of Nigerians, and it is time for the government to take a more people-centered approach to economic management.