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By Madu Obi
The Labour Party presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Mr. Peter Obi has appraised President Bola Tinubu's address to the nation following the end bad governance protest that is rocking various parts of the country.
In a post on his X account, Obi criticized the address and argued that what his administration requires is reform of the critical sectors.
Obi, who had previously urged the President to speak publicly, expressed gratitude that he eventually did, even though it ought to have come earlier.
According to him, the president's address, if it had come at the right time, might have prevented loss of lives, including that of security personnel.
He criticized the President for not showing sufficient empathy towards those affected by the excessive actions of some security operatives during the protests.
He emphasized the government's role in protecting peaceful protesters while addressing criminal elements disrupting the demonstrations.
Obi also welcomed the President's condemnation of ethnic bigotry in any part of the country, but called for more decisive actions, including the immediate arrest and prosecution of those promoting intolerance.
Obi described the President’s address as out of touch with the current realities, suggesting either a lack of awareness among the President’s advisers or a deliberate neglect of pressing issues. He urged the President to distance himself from sycophants and engage with individuals who can provide honest feedback.
While the President's speech focused on historical issues, Obi stressed the need for urgent attention to present and future challenges, such as reducing the high cost of governance, tackling corruption, and addressing the high cost of living. He called for targeted efforts in key areas like health, education, and poverty alleviation.
Obi also advocated for a comprehensive approach to tackling insecurity, economic difficulties, and other critical issues, urging the President to provide regular briefings on tangible measures being implemented to address the nation’s problems.
He called for a shift from merely highlighting current issues to taking meaningful action, stressing that while immediate solutions may not be possible, a consistent effort is essential to effectively manage public resources, combat corruption, and enhance critical sectors to foster national growth and restore hope for Nigeria's future.
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