Reform Action Ahead of Planned National Protests – Ambassador Ajadi Urges FG

By Ibrahim Kegbegbe

As nationwide protests loom, set to commence on August 1st and conclude by August 10th, Nigerians are rallying under the “EndBadGovernance” campaign, demanding comprehensive economic and political reforms. Social media has been a pivotal tool in organizing these demonstrations.

In response, the government has employed various tactics, including consultations with traditional and religious leaders and issuing warnings through security agencies. The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, has instructed commanders of mobile police units nationwide to prepare for potential unrest.

Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, the Southwest Chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), highlighted the severe economic challenges exacerbated by current government policies, such as the confusion surrounding dual Naira notes and the stalled progress at the Dangote Refinery.

He criticized the significant depreciation of Nigeria’s currency within West Africa and globally, attributing it to the government’s imposition of multiple taxes without corresponding benefits to citizens. He urged the federal government to address these economic issues, including reducing petroleum prices and implementing price controls on essential commodities.

Ambassador Ajadi also outlined a detailed list of grievances driving the protest, including hunger, inflation, high fuel prices, and inadequate minimum wage. He emphasized the need to tackle issues such as power shortages, deteriorating roads, budget padding, and electoral misconduct by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

Further concerns include the high cost of governance, questionable appointments, excessive borrowing, and issues like crude oil theft. He called for substantial reforms, including making refineries functional, addressing excessive electricity tariffs and high bank charges, and supporting resource control. Additionally, constitutional reform, restructuring, and a shift from consumption-based to production-driven policies are critical. Ajadi also stressed the importance of addressing corruption, unaccountability, poor road networks, inadequate housing, and underfunding in various sectors.

Ajadi advocated for a significant reduction in the salaries and allowances of federal and state lawmakers, in line with a recent court ruling mandating the Revenue Mobilization, Allocation, and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to adjust legislative remunerations. He also urged state governments to implement the new minimum wage and resolve any outstanding salaries.

Additionally, Ajadi expressed concerns about the effectiveness of Nigeria’s anti-corruption institutions, citing a lack of public confidence due to perceived governmental interference. He compared Nigeria’s judicial system unfavorably with international standards, referencing the legal actions against Hunter Biden in the United States as an example of judicial independence.

Ambassador Ajadi called for restraint from security forces and politicians, urging law enforcement to avoid violent confrontations with demonstrators. He warned against political exploitation of the protests, emphasizing that they are a call for improved governance rather than an act of defiance against the state.

He urged the federal government to perceive the protests as a national demand for good governance and to allow peaceful demonstrations without military intervention.

Ambassador Ajadi said, “Citizens deserve daily press releases from the presidency to keep them informed about the latest developments in the country.”

As Nigeria approaches a critical moment in its socio-political landscape, the push for reforms underscores a widespread desire for a government that is accountable, responsive, and capable of driving sustainable development.