HURIWA urges Tinubu to focus on governance amid APC’s premature 2027 election talks

The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges rather than allowing the All Progressives Congress (APC) to shift focus prematurely to the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Monday, HURIWA expressed deep concern over what it described as the APC’s insensitivity to the plight of millions of Nigerians grappling with poverty, insecurity, and deteriorating infrastructure.

The group criticized recent remarks by APC leaders, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who suggested there would be no vacancy in Aso Rock until 2031, calling such comments a “disconnect from the realities of Nigerians.”

HURIWA highlighted the dire economic conditions in the country, pointing to the steep decline of the naira following the administration’s decision to float the currency, and the inflationary impact of subsidy removal on basic goods and services. “Nigerians are becoming absolutely poorer by the day.

The cost of living has skyrocketed, making basic necessities unaffordable for many. Meanwhile, public infrastructure is collapsing, and insecurity has worsened,” the group noted.

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The rights organization criticized the APC’s focus on power retention, describing it as a diversion from urgent national issues. “Instead of addressing these pressing issues, the APC is preoccupied with politicking for 2027, ignoring the poverty, insecurity, and crumbling infrastructure that define the daily realities of millions of Nigerians,” the statement read.

HURIWA drew attention to the deteriorating state of roads, schools, and healthcare facilities across the country. “Our public schools are in shambles, hospitals lack basic equipment, and the road network has become a death trap. These failures are glaring, yet the government seems more interested in campaigning than fixing the nation,” it said.

On security, the group decried the unchecked activities of kidnappers and terrorists, which have left communities in perpetual fear. “From Zamfara to Benue, and across the South-East and North-East, Nigerians are living under siege. This level of insecurity is unacceptable, and the government must do more to protect its citizens,” HURIWA stated.

The association urged President Tinubu to refocus on fulfilling his campaign promises, particularly in tackling poverty, reviving the economy, and ensuring the safety of lives and property. “The APC must realize that its legitimacy lies not in political rhetoric but in its ability to deliver tangible dividends of democracy to the people,” HURIWA emphasized.

The group also called on civil society and the media to remain vigilant, stressing the importance of holding the government accountable. “Nigerians deserve a government that prioritizes governance over politicking. The focus must remain on addressing the challenges of today if the country is to secure a brighter future,” the statement concluded.

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Comrade Emmanuel Onwubiko, National Coordinator of HURIWA, reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to advocacy and accountability, urging the administration to demonstrate empathy and competence in governance during this critical period.