Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-10 04:52:02
The twin woes of the deteriorating state of the economy and rising cases of insecurity across the country continue to plague the nation, and the need for urgent remedial measures from President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is essential to address these pressing issues. Debo Ologunagba, the National Publicity Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), voiced concerns over the protests and uprisings against the high cost of living and highlighted the serious impact of the abrupt removal of petroleum product subsidies without appropriate economic strategies. Ologunagba also criticized the poor approaches of the Tinubu-led All Progressives Congress (APC) administration towards unemployment, poverty, high living costs, and insecurity. These issues have significantly eroded the people’s confidence in the current government.
Ologunagba expressed deep concern regarding the recent protests in Kano and Niger states. He emphasized that these protests are reflective of the suffocating environment and the overall situation of insecurity, hardship, hopelessness, hunger, and agony imposed on the citizens by the ill-considered policies of the APC government. The removal of oil subsidies, the floating of the naira without a backup arrangement, and the subsequent hike in interest rates have led to an increase in poverty, with more than 104 million citizens sinking deeper into destitution. Additionally, the soaring inflation rate, the steep depreciation of the national currency against the US dollar, and the exodus of companies from the country have exacerbated the unemployment crisis, contributing to a sense of hopelessness and frustration among the population.
As the leading opposition party, Ologunagba advised the government to prioritize the welfare and security of the people, as mandated by the Constitution. He lamented the government’s insensitivity and irresponsibility in addressing the challenges faced by the citizens, which have led to widespread frustration and discontent, as evident in the escalating protests. Ologunagba urged the government to take immediate action to address the grievances of the people and restore peace and stability in the country.
The PDP spokesperson also criticized the government’s lack of empathy and leadership in the face of security challenges, particularly in the wake of the terrorist attack in Benue. He emphasized the importance of strong and effective leadership, citing the example of President Joe Biden’s symbolic gesture of kneeling before the daughter of George Floyd to express empathy and solidarity in the aftermath of a tragic incident. Ologunagba highlighted the need for the president to demonstrate genuine concern and engage directly with the citizens to address their grievances and restore confidence in the government.
In response to accusations of sponsored protests, Ologunagba reiterated the people’s constitutional right to peaceful demonstrations and emphasized the government’s responsibility to address the root causes of the protests rather than dismiss them as politically motivated. He stressed the urgent need for the government to acknowledge the growing frustration and discontent among the populace and take concrete steps to address their grievances and alleviate their suffering.
Regarding the argument that the current administration needs more time to address the nation’s challenges, Ologunagba emphasized that the administration had promised to bring hope and positive change. However, the implementation of ill-conceived policies has only exacerbated the suffering of the people. He underscored the urgency of the situation, stating that Nigerians cannot afford to wait as they are suffering and dying due to the government’s shortcomings.
In conclusion, Ologunagba urged President Tinubu and his administration to acknowledge the gravity of the situation and prioritize the welfare and security of the people. He called for transparency, accountability, and genuine efforts to address the economic and security challenges facing the nation, emphasizing the need for leadership that demonstrates empathy, competence, and a sincere commitment to the well-being of the citizens. Ologunagba’s remarks serve as a stark reminder of the urgent need for decisive and effective governance to address the pressing issues confronting the nation.
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