The African Democratic Congress (ADC) on Monday accused the federal government of artificially lowering food prices through import waivers to gain political mileage, warning that insecurity and soaring input costs continue to cripple local agriculture despite official claims of increased production.

In a statement issued by ADC National Publicity Secretary Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party dismissed the narrative of falling prices as a temporary fix that floods Nigerian markets with cheap foreign goods while sidelining domestic farmers. “This is neither sound policy nor proof of increased local output,” Abdullahi said, citing widespread banditry displacing northern growers and a 200% surge in fertilizer costs since 2023.

The ADC called for a comprehensive overhaul of Nigeria’s food strategy, urging the government to prioritize protection, stabilization, and sovereignty to shield citizens from what it described as “weaponized hunger.”

Finance Minister Wale Edun, responding to similar criticisms last week, defended the government’s approach as part of broader economic reforms. He cited a projected 3.5% GDP growth for 2025 and noted that prices of staples like rice and yam have dropped by 15% due to improved harvests and logistics. “Imports bridge gaps while we build capacity,” Edun said, pointing to Central Bank interventions aimed at stabilizing supply chains.

Agriculture Minister Abubakar Kyari added that 5 million hectares are currently under cultivation, signaling progress. However, he acknowledged the impact of insecurity, which has displaced an estimated 2 million farmers nationwide.

The debate underscores Nigeria’s deepening food security challenges. According to National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) data, food imports reached ₦2.5 trillion last year, while poverty affects 40% of the population. In the North-West, banditry continues to claim roughly 500 lives monthly, further straining agricultural productivity.

The ADC’s critique aligns with calls from groups like the All Farmers Association of Nigeria (AFAN), which has demanded subsidized seeds, improved access to inputs, and enhanced security patrols in rural areas.