Chukwu Obinna 
ABUJA, Nigeria – The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Federal Government of using food pricing as a political tool, arguing that recent reductions in the cost of staple foods are not the result of improved farming output but temporary import waivers.
Speaking on Tuesday, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi challenged official claims that agricultural interventions are stabilising markets.
“Families and farmers tell a different story,” Abdullahi said. “Food prices are being manipulated, and hunger is being used for political advantage.”
The ADC contends that increased importation of foreign produce risks weakening Nigeria’s agricultural base by undercutting smallholder farmers already affected by insecurity and rising input costs.
The party also expressed concern over reports that imported food reserves are not being released quickly enough to ease market pressures.
“If the government insists food prices are falling, why are basic meals still unaffordable for millions?” Abdullahi asked. “And why keep food in storage when citizens are struggling?”
The party warned that short-term market interventions without structural reform could deepen economic inequality and undermine food sovereignty.
It urged the government to invest in local production systems, strengthen rural security networks, and ensure subsidies directly reach farmers rather than intermediaries.
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