Afenifere, the Yoruba socio-political organization, has expressed deep concern over the current state of Nigeria under President Bola Tinubu's administration. In a communique issued after their regular monthly meeting, held on Tuesday, August 27, 2024, the group highlighted the distressing condition of the nation, lamenting the pervasive hardship, insecurity, and economic turmoil that have plagued the country since Tinubu took office over a year ago.
The communique, signed by Deputy Leader Oladipo Olaitan and Deputy Secretary-General Alade Rotimi-John, emphasized the widespread disillusionment among Nigerians. Afenifere noted that the public is grappling with severe challenges, including runaway inflation, massive unemployment, and a general sense of hopelessness. The organization described the government's approach as reckless and indifferent, particularly in its handling of public revenue and expenditure.
Afenifere cited several instances of what it termed "profligate" spending by the Tinubu administration. These include the purchase of an Airbus A330 jet for $150 million (N240 billion) for the President, N950 million for new armored Cadillac Escalade Limousines, N21 billion for a new mansion for the Vice President, N90 billion in subsidies for religious pilgrimage, and N10 billion for the renovation of the Presidential Lodge in Lagos. The organization expressed shock at the scale of these expenditures, which it said have contributed to Nigeria's poor international image.
In addition to criticizing the government's spending habits, Afenifere accused the Tinubu administration of employing diversionary tactics to distract the public from pressing national issues. The group pointed to the re-introduction of the old National Anthem and a controversial move to seek a Supreme Court ruling that would make local governments federating units, contrary to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution.
Afenifere also voiced alarm over what it described as a growing threat to press freedom in Nigeria. The group condemned the harassment and detention of journalists who have been critical of the government, urging the administration to respect the constitutional right to freedom of expression as enshrined in Section 39 of the Constitution.
In response to the current state of affairs, Afenifere reiterated its call for comprehensive reforms to improve governance in Nigeria. The group advocated for the implementation of the Oronsaye Report to reduce the cost of governance, the immediate devolution of powers in line with federal principles, and the long-demanded restructuring of the country.
The meeting, presided over by Oladipo Olaitan, concluded with a strong message to the Tinubu administration: address the nation's pressing issues with urgency and foresight, or risk further alienating an already disillusioned populace.
