A Call for Practical Leadership in Nigeria Nwokobia’s Appeal to President Tinubu on what to do to avert planned protest.

President Bola Tinubu – ARDnig

Professor Chris Nwokobia, convener of the Country First Movement, urges President Bola Tinubu to address Nigeria’s economic hardships pragmatically rather than suppressing protests. He advocates for reducing government spending, cutting lawmakers’ salaries, and engaging in transparent dialogue with the populace to avert planned demonstrations.

The Call for Practical Leadership

Professor Chris Nwokobia, convener of the Country First Movement, has called on President Bola Tinubu to adopt a practical approach in addressing the ongoing economic hardships in Nigeria. Nwokobia criticizes the government’s tendency to brandish treason allegations against opposition figures and attempt to suppress protests through financial incentives. He emphasizes that the administration must acknowledge the prevailing realities and take meaningful steps to alleviate the suffering of the Nigerian people.

Challenging the Government’s Narrative

Nwokobia’s perspective directly challenges the government’s narrative, particularly the statements made by Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy. Onanuga labeled the protest movements as treasonous, a characterization Nwokobia disputes. He argues that peaceful protests are a legitimate expression of public sentiment and that attempts to quash dissent only deepen public dissatisfaction and resolve to protest. The government’s response should involve engaging with the populace rather than intimidating them.

Mr. President must begin to tell those who are using this situation to cash out, that you’re provoking the very people who love their country. It is essential to understand that the frustrations and grievances of the people cannot be silenced by financial incentives or intimidation. True leadership involves addressing the underlying issues and empathizing with the struggles of the populace.” – Prof. Chris Nwokobia

Proposals for Averting Protests

To prevent the planned nationwide demonstrations, Nwokobia proposes several actions for President Tinubu. He suggests that the President engage in genuine dialogue with the Nigerian people, acknowledging their struggles and addressing their grievances. One of his key recommendations is to reduce the government’s financial burden by cutting unnecessary expenditures, including the salaries of lawmakers. Nwokobia highlights the stark contrast between the lavish compensation received by National Assembly members and the economic suffering of ordinary citizens, advocating for a systemic overhaul.

Nigerians protesting against hardship – ARDnig

Emphasizing Transparency and Accountability

Nwokobia further contends that President Tinubu should prioritize operational transparency and accountability within the government. He advises the President to publicly announce substantial cuts to his own emoluments and those of his Cabinet members as a gesture of solidarity with the suffering masses. This approach, he argues, would demonstrate genuine leadership and help rebuild trust between the government and its citizens. By prioritizing the needs of the people over the interests of political elites, the President could foster a sense of unity and collective purpose in addressing Nigeria’s challenges.

Professor Chris Nwokobia’s appeal to President Tinubu underscores the need for pragmatic and empathetic leadership in Nigeria. By addressing economic hardships transparently, reducing government spending, and engaging in genuine dialogue with the populace, the administration can alleviate the suffering of the Nigerian people and avert widespread protests.