Redirecting Nigerian youths in supporting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu Presidency:
[Hon Obayan Olakusibe writes from Akunu Akoko].
In recent weeks, there has been a growing call for protests against the administration of President Bola Tinubu. These protests, characterized by the slogan “Tinubu Must Go,” have been gaining traction across various parts of Nigeria. However, a closer examination reveals that the anger and frustration of the populace may be misdirected. Instead of targeting the president, who has shown genuine intentions to improve the nation, the focus should be on holding the National Assembly and certain cabinet members accountable for their roles in the country’s ongoing challenges.
To understand why the protest should be redirected, it is crucial to recognize the efforts and battles President Tinubu has been engaged in since he took office. Tinubu’s administration has been marked by a series of bold moves aimed at addressing deeply rooted issues in Nigeria. From tackling the cabals manipulating the foreign exchange market to advocating for Local Government Autonomy, Tinubu has shown a clear commitment to transparency and decentralization of power.
The Battles Fought For the Progress and Development of the Country by President Tinubu:
Foreign Exchange Market Manipulation: Tinubu’s administration has confronted powerful cabals that have long manipulated Nigeria’s foreign exchange market. This battle is fought with good intentions and is crucial for stabilizing the economy and ensuring fair access to foreign currency for all Nigerians.
Subsidy Reform:
One of Tinubu’s most controversial moves was the removal of petroleum subsidies. While this policy has led to short-term economic pain, it was fought with good intentions and a necessary step to free up resources for more productive uses. The challenge now is to implement measures that will mitigate the adverse effects on the populace.
Local Government Autonomy:
Tinubu has taken on state governors by advocating for the autonomy of local governments. This decentralization effort is aimed at ensuring that resources reach the grassroots level and are used for the development of local communities.
Transparency in Oil and Gas:
The fight against corruption in the oil and gas sector is another significant battle fought with good intentions. Tinubu’s administration has taken steps to dismantle the entrenched interests that have long benefitted from opaque practices in this critical sector.
Banking Sector Reforms:
By challenging the CEOs of major banks, Tinubu is working to reshape Nigeria’s banking sector to better serve the needs of the people and the economy.
Security Challenges: Tinubu’s administration is grappling with various security challenges, including food insecurity, banditry, destruction of farmlands by herdsmen, and the ongoing threat of Boko Haram. His commitment to security and peace remains steadfast.
The Real Culprits:
The country continues to face significant challenges, including widespread hunger, partly as a result of the subsidy removal policy. Despite the President’s promises of government of national competence, It has become increasingly clear that some members of President Tinubu’s cabinet lack the competence to effectively address these issues. This incompetence has hindered the administration’s ability to implement policies that would cushion the effects of subsidy removal and other necessary reforms.
Furthermore, the National Assembly has also played a role in perpetuating these challenges. Their refusal to support a bill that would prevent the use of the defense budget for purposes other than its intended use raises serious questions about their commitment to national security and prudent fiscal management.
Intent Matters:
The Importance of Good Intentions in any political administration can not be overemphasized. The intention behind policies and actions is crucial. A wrong step taken with good intentions can be corrected, while a seemingly good step taken with bad intentions can lead to disastrous outcomes.
President Tinubu has consistently demonstrated good intentions in his efforts to reform Nigeria. While some of his policies may have had unintended negative consequences, it has been demonstrated that his overall goal is to develop the nation and improve the lives of Nigerians.
The Need for a Strategic Protest
Given this context, it is evident that the call for “Tinubu Must Go” is misguided. Removing President Tinubu would not only disrupt the ongoing reform efforts but also plunge the country into political uncertainty.
The political arrangement in Nigeria requires the presidency to be rotated between the Northern and Southern zones. This means that any immediate replacement for Tinubu would face significant challenges in terms of legitimacy and acceptance across the nation. Instead, the protest should be strategically targeted.
The real demand should be for a reshuffling of the president’s cabinet to bring in more competent individuals who can effectively implement the necessary reforms. Additionally, the National Assembly should be held accountable for their actions and urged to reduce their exorbitant allowances and salaries to align with the economic realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.
A Call for Localized Action
To maximize the impact of the protest, it should be conducted in a decentralized manner. Protesters should take their grievances to their respective states of origin, focusing on local issues and holding their state representatives accountable. This approach would ensure that the protest remains peaceful and constructive, rather than descending into chaos and violence.
While the frustration and anger of Nigerians are understandable, it is crucial to direct these emotions towards the right targets. President Tinubu has shown a genuine commitment to reforming Nigeria, and his intentions should not be doubted.
The focus should be on ensuring that his administration is supported by competent individuals and that the National Assembly is held accountable for its actions. By doing so, Nigerians can channel their energies towards constructive change that will lead to a better future for all.
