The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has expressed deep concern over the failure of leadership in Nigeria, highlighting the stark contrast between the government’s claims of financial stability and the harsh reality of widespread poverty and hardship among citizens.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Wednesday, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade (Dr) Ibrahim Mualeem Zikirullahi, called for increased accountability and patriotism in leadership. He urged leaders to prioritize the welfare of the nation and its citizens, criticizing the current administration’s policies, which he said have exacerbated the suffering of the masses.
Criticism of Government Policies
According to CHRICED, policies such as the removal of fuel subsidies have been implemented hastily and without sufficient foresight, further burdening citizens already grappling with hyperinflation and declining purchasing power. Zikirullahi stated, “The removal of fuel subsidies has only exacerbated the plight of the masses. The government’s hasty and ill-conceived policy has further burdened citizens already struggling with hyperinflation and a decline in purchasing power.”
National Assembly Criticized
The organization also criticized the National Assembly for its focus on trivial debates, such as the relevance of the old and new national anthems, while neglecting urgent issues like corruption, insecurity, and unemployment. Zikirullahi remarked, “The National Assembly seems to have lost its way, fixating on trivial debates while ignoring pressing issues like corruption, insecurity, and unemployment. It is baffling that government officials propose a minimum wage of less than $35 per month for Nigerian workers while failing to acknowledge the hard work and sweat of the Nigerian people.”
Honoring Prof. Abubakar Momoh
CHRICED paid tribute to the late Prof. Abubakar Momoh, a renowned scholar and activist dedicated to advancing Nigeria’s democracy. The organization reaffirmed its commitment to the values Prof. Momoh championed, including democracy, transparency, and accountability. Zikirullahi emphasized the need for current leaders to adopt these values and prioritize the country’s well-being over selfish motives.
Urgent Call for Patriotic Leadership
Highlighting the pervasive challenges in Nigeria, including hunger, insecurity, unemployment, and lack of basic social amenities, Zikirullahi called for leaders who embody the spirit of patriotism and demand accountability from the government. “Nigeria urgently needs men and women who embody the spirit of patriotism, demanding accountability from the government in a straightforward manner. Our current leaders must adopt the values of patriotism and altruistic service, prioritizing the nation’s welfare and casting aside selfish motives and greed,” he said.
CHRICED remains hopeful that by working together, Nigerians can build a more just and inclusive nation, fulfilling the vision of the late Prof. Abubakar Momoh and ensuring his legacy endures. The organization believes that collective efforts can lead to justice, peace, and prosperity for all citizens.