The Allied Peoples Movement (APM) has expressed concerns over President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's leadership style, alleging that he is disconnected from Nigerians and lacks the capacity to provide effective governance. According to the party's National Publicity Secretary, Abubakar Yusuf, President Tinubu has abdicated his duties to a group of unelected individuals, including family members and principal aides. This, the APM claims, has led to a lethargic administration that is often absent from the theatre of governance.
The APM criticized President Tinubu's repeated absence at meetings of world leaders, particularly the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA). The party argued that this absence underscores the President's inability to effectively represent and drive Nigeria's interest at the global level. Instead of attending to critical matters of state, President Tinubu has been accused of preferring to holiday abroad at taxpayers' expense.
The party also questioned why President Tinubu has never visited communities ravaged by terrorists, kidnappers, and bandits or met directly with grieving families and victims. As Commander-in-Chief, the APM noted that President Tinubu has not demonstrated the commitment and capacity to lead from the front on matters of security. The party claimed that this approach has emboldened terrorists, bandits, and kidnappers, resulting in the reported killing of over 600,000 Nigerians and the abduction of many more in the last three years.
On the economy, the APM accused the administration of failing to present an effective strategy to harness the nation's human and natural resources. The party claimed that the administration has resorted to harsh policies, including the abrupt removal of fuel subsidy, imposition of stringent tax regimes, and reckless external borrowing. These policies have led to the crippling of the productive sector, with millions of businesses shut down, high costs, and a 33.3 per cent unemployment rate.
The APM further claimed that the administration's borrowings have pushed the nation's debt to N159.28 trillion, with little to show for it. The party alleged that major multinationals have exited the country, while over 3.7 million youths and professionals have emigrated in the "Japa" phenomenon. This has resulted in over 140 million Nigerians being plunged into excruciating economic hardship, with a 63 per cent poverty rate.
The party argued that Nigeria cannot afford another four years under what it described as an insensitive and rudderless administration. The APM emphasized that President Tinubu must understand that Nigeria requires a leader with full stamina, who is present, accessible, and fully engaged in governance. Governance, the party stressed, cannot be left to uncertainty, nor can the lives of about 250 million Nigerians be placed on autopilot.
The APM's criticism of President Tinubu's leadership style and policies reflects a broader concern about the direction of the country. As the administration continues to face challenges in various sectors, the party's call for a change in leadership style and approach may resonate with Nigerians who are seeking effective governance and economic growth.
Key points
- President Tinubu's administration has been criticized for its handling of security and economic challenges.
- The APM has accused President Tinubu of being disconnected from Nigerians and lacking effective leadership.
- The party has called for a change in leadership style and approach to address the country's challenges.
