Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu is facing growing discontent and anger from citizens who are struggling with soaring prices, food shortages, and economic hardship. But while many Nigerians are taking to the streets to demand change, some leaders in the South-East region are praising Tinubu for his efforts to stabilize the country.
A rare show of support
The Secretary-General of Ohanaeze Ndigbo, Okechukwu Isiguzoro, on Sunday, commended the people of the South-East for their calmness in abstaining from the series of protests against Tinubu. He said the South-East has always suffered government neglect since the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari.
He urged Tinubu to implement the recommendations of the 2014 Constitutional Conference amid the hardship confronting Nigeria.
In a statement, Isiguzoro said the South-East region, which comprises mainly of the Igbo ethnic group, has shown exceptional wisdom and resilience in weathering the storm. He said the region has been discriminated against and marginalized in terms of federal appointments, infrastructure, and security.
He also contrasted the peaceful attitude of the South-East with the violent clashes and killings that have occurred in other parts of the country during the protests.
A call for constitutional reform
Isiguzoro said the only way to address the grievances and aspirations of the various regions and ethnic groups in Nigeria is to implement the recommendations of the 2014 Constitutional Conference, which was convened by former President Goodluck Jonathan to review the country’s political structure and system.
He said the conference proposed a more devolved and inclusive governance model that would give more autonomy and resources to the states and local governments, and ensure a fair and equitable distribution of power and wealth.
He said the conference also addressed issues such as security, human rights, corruption, electoral reforms, and national identity.
He appealed to Tinubu to heed the voices of reason and adopt the conference report as a blueprint for national transformation and unity.
A glimmer of hope
Despite the bleak economic outlook and the social unrest, Isiguzoro said there is still hope for Nigeria to overcome its challenges and achieve its potential as a great nation.
He said the South-East region is ready to partner with the federal government and other stakeholders to promote peace, development, and progress in the country.
He also called on the citizens to support Tinubu’s efforts to revive the economy and restore stability and to shun violence and lawlessness.
He said the South-East region is optimistic that Nigeria will emerge stronger and better from the current crisis.
Source: Punch
