Peter Obi, the 2023 presidential candidate for the Labour Party, has expressed disappointment in the Federal Government’s response to the recent hunger protests across Nigeria. The protests, branded #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, have highlighted widespread discontent over issues such as corruption, the high cost of living, and fuel subsidies.
In a series of tweets on Monday, Obi urged President Bola Tinubu to seek honest counsel and avoid sycophants. He stressed the need for the president to acknowledge the public’s grievances and address them effectively.
Despite President Tinubu’s national address on Sunday, where he called for dialogue and an end to the protests, demonstrations have continued in major cities, including Lagos, Abuja, and Kaduna. The president assured protesters that their concerns were heard “loud and clear,” yet the public remains unsatisfied.
Obi critiqued Tinubu’s speech, describing it as disconnected from the pressing realities of Nigerians. He pointed out that the address failed to tackle the core issues prompting the protests, suggesting either a disconnect within the president’s advisory team or a deliberate neglect of the people’s plight.
“The President’s speech seemed focused on the past, whereas the populace is concerned with the present and the future,” Obi remarked. He emphasized the urgent need to address the high cost of governance, corruption, and misallocation of resources, particularly in health, education, and poverty alleviation.
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Obi called for decisive action against insecurity, economic challenges, poverty, unemployment, and power sector issues. He recommended regular briefings by the president, similar to practices in other countries facing comparable challenges, to keep the public informed and engaged.
Acknowledging President Tinubu’s attempt to address the nation, albeit belatedly, Obi noted that timely communication could have prevented the loss of innocent lives, including security personnel. He emphasized that while immediate solutions are not expected, addressing critical issues like resource mismanagement and reducing the high cost of governance are essential steps.
Obi also urged the government to identify and manage criminal elements exploiting the protests for looting and other illegal activities, ensuring the protection of those exercising their democratic rights.
