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The President’s Oration
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent address during Nigeria’s Independence Day celebrations has sparked criticism for its lack of substance and connection with the populace. As citizens face economic hardships, many feel his claims of significant achievements fall short of addressing their real concerns. The call for a more transparent and engaged leadership grows louder, highlighting the need for genuine communication in a time of uncertainty.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s communication oration style has drawn criticism as he has rarely engaged with the public outside of formal ceremonies.
This trend marks a departure from former leaders like Goodluck Jonathan, who actively participated in media interactions.
Under Muhammadu Buhari, the presidency became increasingly insular, leaving many feeling disconnected.
The recent 64th Independence Day oration was Tinubu’s first significant communication since his uninspiring remarks during the #EndBadGovernance protests.
However, many viewed the speech as an opportunity for self-justification rather than a genuine connection with citizens.
In a time of economic hardship, the president touted his administration’s accomplishments, which many found lacking in substance and relevance.
Tinubu’s economic claims, such as attracting $30 billion in foreign investments and clearing a significant debt, were met with skepticism.
Statistics from the Nigerian Bureau of Statistics contradicted these assertions, revealing a mere $28.83 million in foreign direct investment for the second quarter of 2024.
Many citizens were left wanting a clear plan to alleviate their struggles, rather than abstract achievements.
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Amid this, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun displayed a concerning loyalty to the administration over his duty to uphold the law.
His recent actions during the Rivers State council election, which included deploying police to disrupt the electoral process, exemplified a troubling trend of prioritizing political allegiance over institutional integrity.
This raises alarms about the erosion of democratic values and the independence of state electoral commissions.
The president’s failure to maintain regular communication has created a significant gap in trust, further deepening public skepticism.
For Nigeria to move forward, a renewed commitment to transparency, accountability, and genuine engagement with citizens is essential.