Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have voiced their disappointment following President Bola Tinubu’s Independence Day Speech, claiming it neglected urgent, life-threatening issues affecting Nigerians.
Amid two nationwide protests—#EndBadGovernance and #FearlessOctober1—the CSOs criticized the President for failing to address pressing challenges.
Arc Nnimmo Bassey, Executive Director of the Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), expressed frustration, stating, “The president has a lot of advisers and it is clear that he is listening to them.
It is hard to add anything with the belief that one would be heard.” He noted that Tinubu’s recent speeches have not tackled fundamental demands, instead defending unpopular policies....Read Full Article [Click Here>]
Key concerns include the floating Naira, skyrocketing fuel prices despite a functional refinery, and rising electricity tariffs. Bassey questioned why the President did not announce reductions in fuel prices or address the repercussions of refinery operations.
On the proposed youth conference, Bassey remarked, “While having a conference of youths on national issues is a good idea, it is difficult to see why the conference would last a month,” emphasizing the need for genuine dialogue, especially after recent protests were met with arrests.
Auwal Rafsanjani from CISLAC echoed these sentiments, urging the President to prioritize meaningful dialogue and provide immediate relief for citizens facing harsh economic realities.
