The African Democratic Congress (ADC) Legislators’ Forum has strongly criticized the latest loan request by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, warning that the move reflects a troubling pattern of excessive borrowing that could jeopardize Nigeria’s economic future.

In a statement released to the public, the forum expressed deep concern over the administration’s request for Senate approval of an additional $516,333,070 external loan, reportedly intended for the Sokoto–Badagry Super Highway project. While acknowledging the importance of infrastructure development, the ADC questioned the long-term implications of such borrowing and the lack of transparency surrounding it.

According to the forum, the Tinubu administration has yet to convincingly demonstrate that its borrowing strategy is anchored on a clear, sustainable, and economically viable repayment plan. The ADC argued that instead, the government appears to be prioritizing debt accumulation over sound fiscal management, innovation, and the effective mobilization of domestic resources.

The statement highlighted Nigeria’s already heavy debt burden, noting that debt servicing continues to consume a significant portion of national revenue. The party warned that this leaves limited resources for critical sectors such as healthcare, education, and social development. The forum described the current trajectory as a “looming debt catastrophe”, cautioning that each new loan further constrains the country’s economic sovereignty and shifts the burden onto future generations.

The ADC also raised concerns about the timing of the loan request, pointing out that it comes as the country approaches another election cycle. This, the forum suggested, raises legitimate questions about whether such financial commitments are driven purely by developmental needs or influenced by political considerations. It urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and to critically assess large-scale borrowing initiatives presented under the guise of national interest.

Calling for greater accountability, the ADC Legislators’ Forum emphasized that the National Assembly must not act as a mere rubber stamp in approving executive requests. The forum urged the Senate to fulfill its constitutional responsibility by demanding comprehensive details of the proposed project, including financial breakdowns, procurement processes, cost-benefit analyses, and a credible repayment strategy. The forum insisted that anything less would undermine public trust and weaken democratic oversight.

Beyond criticism, the ADC outlined an alternative approach, calling on the administration to focus on policies that promote economic resilience. According to the party, these policies include boosting productivity, supporting industrial growth, creating jobs, and addressing revenue leakages. The forum stressed that borrowing should not replace responsible leadership, strategic thinking, and accountability.

The statement concluded with a warning that those who make decisions that endanger the economic future of millions of Nigerians must understand that a day of reckoning will come.  The statement described this day of reckoning as a day when Nigerians will demand answers, accountability and justice for policies that have deepened hardship and mortgaged the nation’s destiny.

 According to the ADC, Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads—one that requires a deliberate choice between sustainable development and deepening debt dependency.  The party maintains that Nigerians deserve transparency, accountability, and policies that secure the nation’s future, while emphasizing that Nigerians are watching.