The Rise Up Naija (RUN) movement has praised former Vice President Atiku Abubakar for offering a full scholarship to Yusuf Aliyu, a teenager discovered working at a mining site in Niger State. According to RUN, Atiku's gesture demonstrates his commitment to education and reflects the qualities needed in Nigeria's next president. RUN, a civic support organization within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), commended Atiku for responding to Yusuf's situation.
Atiku's intervention went beyond just announcing the scholarship, as he invited Yusuf and his parents to his residence in Abuja. This act was described by RUN as evidence of a "fatherly figure" and a commitment to due diligence. Additionally, Atiku is scheduled to pay a condolence visit to the people and government of Niger State over the incident. He also called for measures to protect Yusuf and his family from potential intimidation or retaliation.
RUN's spokesperson, Comrade Usman Okai Austin, highlighted Atiku's concern for the safety of the vulnerable. The group praised Atiku for not only offering education but also ensuring the teenager's well-being. Atiku's actions were seen as a demonstration of his commitment to the welfare of Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable members of society.
However, RUN criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu over its handling of the mining sector. The group accused the government of failing to identify and prosecute the owners of mining sites where children are allegedly employed. RUN also criticized the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, describing his performance as a failure.
The group alleged that illegal miners are exploiting poverty and unemployment in the country, which it attributed to the failures of the current APC-led administration. RUN urged the committee set up by the Federal Government to investigate the matter to ensure that its work does not become a "mere damage control mechanism" for the administration.
RUN called on Nigerians to demand a change in leadership ahead of the 2027 general elections, saying an Atiku presidency would prioritize equal opportunities for Nigerians regardless of their social status. The group urged the investigative committee to remain accountable to Nigerians and ensure that its findings and recommendations address concerns surrounding child labor and activities in the mining sector.
The incident highlights the need for the government to take concrete actions to address child labor and exploitation in the mining sector. RUN's criticism of the Tinubu government and praise for Atiku Abubakar reflect the ongoing debate about leadership and governance in Nigeria. The group's statement emphasizes the need for a government that prioritizes the welfare and education of its citizens.
Key points
- Atiku Abubakar offers a full scholarship to Yusuf Aliyu, a teenager discovered working at a mining site in Niger State.
- RUN criticizes the Tinubu government for failing to identify and prosecute the owners of mining sites where children are allegedly employed.
- The group calls for a change in leadership, suggesting that an Atiku presidency would prioritize equal opportunities for Nigerians.
