Nigerian Governors Back Tinubu’s Administration Amid Economic Hardship
Despite acknowledging the country’s economic hardship, Nigerian governors have pledged support for President Bola Tinubu’s administration. The governors’ backing comes as citizens prepare for nationwide protests, tagged #EndBadGovernance, to express dissatisfaction with the nation’s state.
Economic Hardship Bites
Nigeria’s economic woes worsened with:
1. 34.2% inflation rate, the highest in nearly three decades
2. Cost of living crisis exacerbated by petrol subsidy removal and naira devaluation
3. Rising unemployment and poverty
Citizen Frustration Boils Over
Protests, scheduled to begin on August 1, will converge at governor’s offices and the National Assembly in Abuja. Demands include:
1. Free education
2. End to insecurity and violence
3. Declaration of a state of emergency on inflation
4. Transparency in lawmakers’ compensation
5. Reopening national borders
Government Response
President Tinubu urges citizens to give his administration more time and patience to address economic hardships. He labels protest organizers as unpatriotic, cautioning against participation.
Governors’ Support
In a statement, the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) pledged allegiance to President Tinubu’s administration:
“We acknowledge the economic challenges but believe the president’s policies will yield long-term benefits.”
Protest Organizers Unyielding
Convener, #EndBadGovernance movement, Omoyele Sowore:
“We won’t back down. The government must address our grievances.”
International Community Watches
Human Rights Watch expresses concerns about Nigeria’s history of violently repressing peaceful protests, citing the #EndSARS protests in 2020.
“The Nigerian government must respect citizens’ right to peaceful assembly and free speech.”
Conclusion
As Nigeria teeters on the brink of widespread protests, the international community watches closely. Will President Tinubu’s administration heed citizens’ demands or employ force to quell dissent? The world awaits the outcome.
