The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu for his recent remarks urging Nigerians to remain patient despite the escalating cost of living.
Tinubu, while addressing former members of the National Assembly at the State House on Friday, emphasized that the country can no longer expect “a free bowl,” acknowledging the hunger in Nigeria but insisting that real development requires time and effort.
The president used a metaphor, stating, “There is no free beer parlour anymore,” to stress that rebuilding the nation would need collective cooperation and hard work.
However, HURIWA slammed the president’s comments as insincere, pointing out that his administration continues to spend lavishly while asking Nigerians to endure economic hardship.
In a statement by its National Coordinator, Emmanuel Onwubiko, HURIWA highlighted the disparity between the government’s rhetoric and its actions, citing billions spent on non-essential items such as feeding, entertainment, and foreign trips by the First Lady.
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The group expressed frustration over what it sees as the government’s failure to lead by example, accusing it of paying lip service to austerity while indulging in wasteful expenditures.
“It is unacceptable for the government to preach sacrifice and austerity while squandering billions on unnecessary expenses,” HURIWA stated, demanding immediate cost-cutting measures and increased fiscal responsibility.
HURIWA outlined key demands, calling for:
A reduction in non-essential government spending
Increased transparency and accountability in federal expenditures
Immediate action to address food insecurity and the high cost of living
The group urged the government to back its words with tangible efforts to alleviate the economic pressures facing ordinary Nigerians, rather than continuing with business as usual.