Protest: Why We Should Give President Tinubu More Time
In a landmark decision, the Supreme Court of Nigeria has granted autonomy to local government councils, marking a significant shift in the nation’s governance structure. This ruling is widely seen as a triumph for grassroots democracy, showcasing the Supreme Court judges’ dedication to justice and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s progressive vision.
The autonomy of local government councils has been a contentious issue in Nigeria, with many arguing that centralized power has hindered development and exacerbated insecurity and poverty, especially in rural areas. The Supreme Court’s decision aims to address these concerns by allowing local councils to manage their own affairs and finances independently. This decentralization is expected to bring governance closer to the people, ensuring that initiatives are tailored to the unique needs of each community, fostering ‘bottom-up’ development.
For President Tinubu, this achievement is a cornerstone of his administration. It reflects his commitment to deepening democratic values and fostering inclusive governance. His support for this autonomy underscores his recognition of the crucial role that local governments play in national development.
However, the journey to local government autonomy is not without challenges. A major issue is the historical mismanagement of council funds. With new-found autonomy comes increased responsibility. Local government chairmen must be held accountable for their stewardship of public resources. Transparency and good governance will be essential to ensure that this autonomy results in tangible benefits for the people.
Nigeria is currently grappling with severe poverty and insecurity, worsened by misgovernance and the recent removal of the fuel subsidy. These issues have left many Nigerians disenchanted and struggling to make ends meet. While the Supreme Court’s decision offers hope for better governance, it is not a cure-all for the country’s problems.
Given these challenges, I believe the mass protest scheduled for August 1 should be postponed. While peaceful protests are a vital part of any democracy, the current focus should be on constructive engagement with the government. President Tinubu must seize this moment to address the nation, reassure the populace, and take decisive action to tackle the root causes of discontent.
To prevent the planned protest, there are several measures President Tinubu and the National Assembly could take to fundamentally improve Nigeria. First, the government at all levels should publish all funds received and spent. Second, the immunity for governors should be removed so they can be held accountable during their tenures. Third, members of the national and state assemblies should be required to hold quarterly town hall meetings with their constituents. Fourth, the central government should focus on addressing revenue leakages, as eliminating these inefficiencies could significantly improve financial stability and reduce reliance on borrowing.
The planned protest for August is not conducive to the unity and stability of our nation. The memories of the Arab Spring and Kenyan protests remind us of the potential consequences. The reality is that poverty and insecurity are pervasive. We should not place the blame solely on Tinubu, as these issues are the result of collective governance failures over decades, and they can be resolved.
For example, Senator Ali Ndume has strongly criticized the Nigerian government, describing it as a “kakistocracy” filled with kleptocrats. In an interview with Arise News, Ndume highlighted severe hunger and food scarcity in the country, noting that inflation has surged to 40 percent. He pointed out that Nigeria is now alarmingly ranked as a food crisis hotspot by the UN and the World Food Programme, an unprecedented situation for the nation. As a senior senator, Ndume stressed the necessity for President Tinubu to address these concerns seriously, particularly the critical issue of hunger.
Ndume’s concerns are not just political rhetoric but reflect a harsh reality that demands urgent attention. With the country facing unprecedented challenges in food security and economic stability, his call for action emphasizes the need for the government to implement effective measures to alleviate citizens’ suffering.
A critical step in this direction would be the dismissal of incompetent ministers who have failed to deliver on their mandates. Additionally, the government must implement pro-poor programs that directly address the needs of the most vulnerable citizens. Initiatives aimed at improving healthcare, education, and social welfare will go a long way in restoring public confidence and alleviating poverty. Given the current economic situation, state governors should prioritize human capital development over projects like flyovers.
In conclusion, the Supreme Court’s ruling on local government autonomy is a monumental step forward for Nigeria. It promises to bring governance closer to the people and foster more inclusive development. However, this opportunity must be matched with accountability, transparency, and a renewed focus on addressing the pressing issues of poverty and insecurity.
As President Tinubu leads the nation through these transformative times, it is imperative that he listens to the voices of the people and takes bold actions to ensure a prosperous and secure future for all Nigerians. We should give President Tinubu more time; now is not the right moment for mass protests. Let’s focus on constructive dialogue rather than division. Together, we can work towards a better future. May God continue to bless Nigeria.
Adam, PhD wrote from Maiduguri
