The Interim Coordinator of the Obidient Movement Worldwide, Dr. Tanko Yunusa, has vehemently criticized the economic policies of the All Progressives Congress (APC) led Federal Government, characterizing them as oppressive and detrimental to the well-being of Nigerian citizens. Speaking at the North-East Leadership Summit in Gombe State, themed ‘The Fundamental Rights of a Nigerian Citizen,’ Yunusa argued that the government’s actions were exacerbating hardship and infringing upon the basic rights of the populace. He called upon President Bola Tinubu to prioritize good governance, emphasizing the need for enhanced security, accessible healthcare, economic stability, and effective poverty alleviation programs. Yunusa stressed that these demands echo the core message championed by Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party in the 2023 elections, whose vision resonated deeply with the Nigerian people and spurred the formation of the Obidient Movement.
Yunusa’s critique focused on the increasing economic burdens faced by Nigerians, attributing the widespread hardship to the government’s apparent disregard for the welfare of its citizens. He questioned the lack of accountability and the seemingly arbitrary increases in tariffs, highlighting the detrimental impact on the average Nigerian’s ability to afford basic necessities, including food and transportation. He underscored the growing sense of insecurity and fear prevalent across the country, with citizens apprehensive about their safety even during everyday commutes. Yunusa’s statements reflect the broader concerns voiced by many Nigerians regarding the rising cost of living, economic instability, and pervasive insecurity under the current administration.
The North-East Leadership Summit served as a platform for Yunusa to reiterate the Obidient Movement’s unwavering commitment to good governance and the protection of fundamental human rights. He stressed the movement’s dedication to uniting Nigerian youth and advocating for a more just and equitable society. Yunusa’s remarks underscored the movement’s belief that leadership is a temporary privilege and should be exercised responsibly and with the best interests of the citizenry at heart. He called on President Tinubu to heed the demands of the Nigerian people and prioritize policies that address the pressing challenges facing the nation.
The Obidient Movement, which emerged as a powerful force during the 2023 presidential elections, continues to advocate for political and economic reforms in Nigeria. Driven by a desire for better governance, accountability, and improved living conditions, the movement represents a growing segment of the population, particularly among the youth, who are disillusioned with the status quo. Yunusa’s pronouncements at the summit reflect the movement’s ongoing commitment to holding the government accountable and demanding meaningful change.
Yunusa’s address serves as a stark reminder of the socio-economic challenges confronting Nigeria and the urgent need for effective leadership and responsive governance. His criticism of the government’s policies and his appeal to President Tinubu to prioritize the welfare of the citizens underscore the growing public discontent and the demand for tangible improvements in the lives of ordinary Nigerians. The Obidient Movement’s continued advocacy for good governance and the protection of fundamental human rights reflects a broader societal yearning for a more just and equitable Nigeria.
The North-East Leadership Summit provided a valuable platform for discussing critical issues affecting the region and the nation as a whole. The theme of fundamental human rights underscored the importance of upholding democratic principles and ensuring the protection of individual liberties. Yunusa’s participation and his pointed critique of the government’s policies served as a call to action, urging both the government and the citizenry to work towards a more prosperous and secure future for Nigeria. The event highlights the growing role of civil society in advocating for positive change and holding those in power accountable.
