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Tinubu’s Fuel Cuts and Naira Float Spark Hunger Crisis

Tinubus Twin Policies of Fuel Subsidy Removal And Floating of (via Primetweets)

 

Former Youth and Sports Development Minister, Solomon Dalung, has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu.

 

Dalung argues that Tinubu fails to grasp the nation’s issues, leading to widespread suffering among Nigerians, marked by hunger, insecurity, and economic turmoil since he took office on May 29, 2023.

 

He attributed these challenges to Tinubu’s dual policies: the elimination of fuel subsidies and the devaluation of the Naira, suggesting there were inadequate strategies to mitigate their effects.

 

Dalung emphasized that no number of defections to the All Progressives Congress (APC) from other political parties will safeguard Tinubu’s position in 2027, claiming he has created a divide between himself and the impoverished Nigerian populace.

 

In an interview with DAILY POST’s Ihechukwu Sunday, he remarked:

 

“Tinubu’s tenure has, so far, fallen significantly short of what was anticipated. His governance style is not unfamiliar to the Nigerian political arena, having served as governor of Lagos for eight years. Many Nigerians who voted for him had high hopes. He was regarded as a miracle worker in Lagos, and there was an expectation that, regardless of the challenges, he would instigate change. Unfortunately, he has not met those hopes from the onset, demonstrating a lack of understanding of the country’s current situation. The removal of fuel subsidies took place without a functioning government, leading to questions about who would address the ensuing issues, and whether any adequate measures were proposed for managing the crisis stemming from this withdrawal.

 

His pronouncement that ‘subsidy is abolished’ was not only reckless but unusual for a leader familiar with governance. While he and his associates may have deemed it acceptable, many of us who have an understanding of governance view it as an abject failure of leadership. A truly brave leader would subject such policies to thorough examination and debate rather than spring such a surprise on the populace, which lacked any fortitude.

 

Simply put, the challenges we face today can be traced back to the onset of his administration. My evaluation of his performance is that it has been disappointing and below expectations.

 

As we approach the next presidential election in two years, a wave of endorsements for President Tinubu’s reelection is emerging across the political landscape, particularly within APC leadership and among governors and National Assembly members. What do these endorsements signify?

 

A Prophet Adams Oshimhole previously claimed that anyone who joins the APC, regardless of their past, would find redemption. Therefore, to truly understand these endorsements, one must reflect on that statement. It isn’t a genuine endorsement based on political realities; rather, it reflects a gathering of individuals with tarnished reputations seeking forgiveness. They have not shown true support for Tinubu; rather, they are uniting to absolve themselves of their past misdeeds. Thus, it can be seen as an assembly of political figures who have wronged the Nigerian populace, seeking refuge in a party that offers them pardon. Consequently, all these endorsements by APC members are superficial; understanding that the votes he received were not solely from APC, but from the wider Nigerian electorate.

 

If the endorsement had come from the Nigerian populace, my analysis would have been more thorough. Considering the APC’s percentage within the broader Nigerian political landscape, these endorsements seem more like a comedic aspect of today’s politics.

 

Recently, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and other state assembly members transitioned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. Similarly, the Akwa Ibom State Governor recently defected, taking about 11 legislators with him to the APC. There are speculations that more governors might follow suit; are these defections a testament to the president’s performance or do they hint at a potential one-party state? What are your thoughts?

 

There’s a saying in Hausa about opportunists rejoicing over a butcher’s downfall—does that mean the butcher’s knife has also vanished? When those elected on the populace’s behalf defect, it raises questions about whether the constituents are also abandoning ship. For instance, in Delta, the governor’s mandate was notably contentious and affirmed by the Supreme Court just before the transition. The popular candidate who lost was convinced to support him for party loyalty. So, if such a recipient of a disputed mandate chooses to switch parties, will the constituents follow?

 

Remember the recent public reception for the previous Governor Ifeanyi Okowa in his hometown, where the community sent a clear message that he was on his own. Historically, women in the South-South have led significant political movements, like the Aba women’s riot of 1929. This recent event must not be overlooked.

 

The women made it abundantly clear to those who have defected for imposture that they face rejection. Therefore, it is not a mass defection; it’s merely the governor and some of his team who have departed. The situation in Akwa Ibom mirrors this; the figure who initially brought the governor into the role did not join him in the APC. Additionally, many House of Assembly members have opted to stay. Key officials are resigning one after the other. Defections should ideally reflect people’s will, demonstrated through genuine community support. But the governor, in his defection address, stated he was switching allegiance based on his perceptions of Tinubu’s performance, clearly indicating a lack of public backing for this move.

 

Ultimately, this offers little value to Tinubu. Instead, it further complicates dynamics within his party, raising possibilities for internal turmoil. I’ll assert this: not even if all 36 state governors join the APC, along with Seyi Tinubu taking a leadership role in INEC, can Tinubu escape the backlash from the masses. He has created a stark divide with the public by weaponizing hunger and poverty and shows no sign of regret while living a lavish lifestyle alongside his family, urging Nigerians to endure for a brighter future.

across the nation. The pressing question remains: When will they take decisive action?

 

What are your thoughts on the efforts of certain politicians, like Atiku Abubakar and Nasir El-Rufai, to create a coalition in preparation for 2027? Do you believe they will be effective in this endeavor?

 

This coalition stands apart from previous attempts throughout Nigeria’s political history. The key distinction is that the current president has openly positioned himself against the impoverished populace, who are suffering daily from hunger, poverty, and malnutrition.

 

This coalition is unprecedented. It arises from the president’s actions, which have been perceived as hostile toward the marginalized, who are battling food scarcity and illness without access to healthcare. This neglect fuels their frustration.

 

The politicians involved in the coalition are acutely aware of the potential for a severe political crisis due to the widespread suffering. They are striving to give the underprivileged hope by organizing an alternative that promises to put an end to their struggles.

 

The coalition is gaining significant support among those suffering, and this is undeniable. I frequently engage with ordinary individuals, and many express their thoughts on this coalition, indicating that they are mainly concerned about removing the current political situation before addressing other matters. Ultimately, the coalition’s candidate may not be the primary concern for them.

 

If the coalition can present a unifying candidate, President Tinubu will face a formidable challenge. Despite deploying all his resources, he may find himself in a predicament similar to that of Jonathan. Thus, even though the coalition members have their disputes, they are united by a common purpose, much like historical alliances forged for a greater cause.

 

In light of El-Rufai’s participation in the SDP, what does this mean for Prince Adewole Adebayo’s aspirations for the presidency in 2027? There are concerns that El-Rufai’s involvement could jeopardize Adebayo’s chances of representing the party. What is your opinion?

 

I don’t wish to discount Adebayo’s political influence and his established reputation within Nigeria’s political context. He is undeniably a significant contender for 2027, as he has been the only presidential candidate consistently vocal about critiquing the government’s failed policies.

 

His name resonates with many Nigerians, making him a notable figure. Regardless of the influx of politicians into the SDP, Adebayo’s status as a presidential candidate will remain paramount, given his contributions to promoting the SDP in Nigeria. He stands as a key figure in the party’s modern history, following Chief MKO Abiola.

 

Concerns about his position are understandable, reflecting typical human anxieties. However, since 2023, the essence of the SDP has been upheld by Adebayo’s relentless commitment and selflessness. Consequently, he is a strong candidate in whatever political setup the SDP organizes for choosing a presidential candidate. Adebayo is driven by patriotism; his political participation isn’t self-serving—he is invested in advancing good governance and justice for Nigeria. Even if he doesn’t emerge victorious in a fair election, he will remain an active participant in the quest for a better Nigeria.

 

Is the SDP still part of the coalition?

 

This question is best directed to the party leadership. From what I know, the coalition’s representatives have engaged with the SDP leadership, though I lack the specifics of those discussions. I expect more information will be released following the Sallah holiday, so I cannot comment further at this time.

 

Since Professor Pat Utomi announced his intention to establish a shadow government, the Federal Government seems anxious, even resorting to court action to prevent this initiative. What is it about this shadow government that causes such distress for the administration?

 

I’ve heard some APC members label it as treason; however, this seems to stem from their inability to cope with their own failures. Under President Muhammadu Buhari, Prince Adebayo and the NC Front also formed a shadow government, in which I participated. Our goal was to provide alternative policies that would help the public understand their options beyond the government’s actions.

 

Professor Utomi’s vision for a shadow government aims to gather experts from various fields to critique and analyze the existing government’s narrative, which often lacks substantial policy backing. Instead of being genuine policies, many declarations are little more than propaganda, lacking actual strategies to enhance citizens’ lives.

 

A sound policy should be grounded in broad consultations. Take, for example, the recent commissioning of a 26.7km Calabar Coastal Highway. It raises questions about governance when such a minimal project is heralded as a significant achievement. This lack of substantive planning highlights a failure in true policy formulation.

 

Utomi’s initiative intends to hold the government accountable and demonstrate that Nigeria has competent thinkers ready to propose realistic solutions. This shadow government seeks to foster discussions that will bolster investor confidence, ensuring that when this administration is eventually replaced, Nigeria will retain its reputation and integrity.

 

Many Nigerians view the 10th National Assembly as merely a puppet of the executive. Do you share this view?

 

I disagree. It is more accurate to describe the 10th Assembly as a chorus of approval for the president. Whenever the president enters the Assembly, they react with the same fervor as children seeing a grandparent, bursting into enthusiastic song. Their last performance, although contentious in interpretation, struck me deeply.

 

Rather than a mere rubber stamp, this assembly often behaves like an enthusiastic choir, ready to echo any presidential directive. I am concerned that one day they might even agree to enshrine indefinite presidential term limits. Such a decision could be done in haste, with the Senate President, Godwill Akpabio, calling for a swift vote, leaving no room for dissent.

 

The National Assembly cannot simply be labeled a rubber stamp because that would imply they have something meaningful to endorse; this Assembly operates without credible content to validate.

 

Instead, they are quick to act on the slightest presidential notion, regardless of its feasibility. Their enthusiasm often surpasses any rational judgment. It’s crucial to recognize that they are not merely a rubber stamp but a chorus ready to sing the president’s praises no matter the circumstances.

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