There are growing calls in Nigeria for President Bola Tinubu to resign before the upcoming elections, with many Nigerians expressing dissatisfaction with his leadership. The calls have been fueled by various factors, including economic hardship, tribal and social considerations. President Tinubu, who assumed office in 2023, has faced criticism for his policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies, which has led to widespread hardship.
The author of an opinion piece in The Punch, Ademola Oni, has joined the growing list of Nigerians calling for President Tinubu's resignation. Oni argues that the President has failed to deliver on his promises and has instead exacerbated the country's economic woes. He cites the removal of fuel subsidies as a major reason for his call, noting that the policy has led to significant hardship for many Nigerians.
Oni also criticizes President Tinubu for his lack of engagement with the public, particularly on social media, where he has faced intense criticism. The President had previously admitted to avoiding social media due to the abuse he received on the platforms. Oni argues that the President's disconnection from the public has contributed to his unpopularity.
The author suggests that President Tinubu's actions, including the removal of fuel subsidies, have been reckless and have not shown any signs of repentance. He notes that the policy has benefited a select few, including NNPC Limited's chiefs, fuel marketers, and importers, at the expense of the masses. Oni argues that the President's economic model has been destructive and has not provided any relief to the poor masses.
Oni also criticizes the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, for not taking action to address the President's alleged incompetence. He notes that the Senate, led by Godswill Akpabio, has not shown any willingness to hold the President accountable. Oni argues that the National Assembly has failed in its oversight duties and has instead become a rubber stamp for the President's policies.
The author suggests that some presidential aspirants, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and former Governor Peter Obi, may support his call for President Tinubu's resignation. Atiku Abubakar, in particular, has been consistent in his promise to restore fuel subsidies if elected President. However, Oni notes that Abubakar's plan lacks concrete data and figures, making it difficult to assess its feasibility.
The growing calls for President Tinubu's resignation have significant implications for Nigeria's politics. The President's approval ratings have been declining, and his party, the All Progressives Congress, has faced challenges in some states. The opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party and the All Progressives Grand Alliance, have also faced setbacks in recent elections, which may affect their chances in the upcoming polls.
Key points
- President Tinubu faces growing calls to resign due to economic and political grievances.
- The removal of fuel subsidies has been a major factor in the calls for President Tinubu's resignation.
- The National Assembly has been criticized for not taking action to address President Tinubu's alleged incompetence.
