Headline

Crises in Nigeria: Food, Not New Constitution, is the Answer

Published

1 year ago

August 11, 2024

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

In the recent times, the Nigerian space has been very volatile as anger occasioned by extreme hunger, continue to ravage the land. This situation has led to a massive protest against the less than 15-months-old President Bola Tinubu-led administration in states across the nation, especially in the Northwest and Northeast corridors of the regions.

Themed #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria, the protests have been described as the consequence of a bottled up anger, which has engulfed Nigerians, from the extreme hardship that resulted with the pronouncement of Tinubu’s “Subsidy is gone” address on May 29, 2023.

With various manifestations of theories being propounded as the reasons for the consequential crises, most elites have said the a new constitution that will address the basic structure of the Peoples of Nigeria is urgently needed to assurge the desires of thr people, others have opined that at a time like this, all Nigerians are interested in is food for survival, and not constitution.

“Yes, we need a new constitution to address a lot of lopsided issues in the Nigerian nation, but as it stands today, the most important to address is hunger and hardship that has reduced many families to beggars, and has also made even the hitherto well to do members of the society to relapse into oblivion,” a hardship protester said.

As at the moment, a N500 plate of food cannot quench a form of hunger in roadside cafeterias otherwise ‘mama put’. One has to cough out as much as 1500 to 2000 to be able to have a ‘decent’ roadside. The eateries are now no go areas to average salary earner.

In the same vein a moderate tuber of yam that can serve for one meal in a family of 3/4 persons cost about 5000 as against 1000/1500. A bag of rice sells at N85000 depending on the location. Tomatoes and other cooking ingredients are gradually going beyond the reach of the regular.

Tinubu has therefore, in a make or mar effort to redeem image, launched into unproductive distribution of palliative to both individuals and governments, all in a bid to attempt to curb the resultant hardship, which has been acknowledged by the government. The effort has painted the administration as a palliative government of Nigeria, that has no clear-cut agenda to give the people a good life.

It would be recalled that life took a dramatic turn for the worse for Nigerians on May 29, 2023 minutes after President Tinubu was sworn in. It all took three simple words to bring a world of gloom to the citizens, who were hoping for a positive change from the drab eight years of General Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. What Nigerians got was a clear distance from prosperity and survival. In between May 2023 and the present, the situation has remained unprecedented as high cost of living, loss of jobs and general disconnect from deep-rooted welfarism have become the order of the day. Nigerians have continued to tell a tale of woe, the Tinubu loyalists have continued to defend a very bad situation, albeit unsuccessfully.

From the moment President Tinubu declared the unfamous subsidy is gone jargon, a drastic change occurred. And as if not deterred in the provision of antipeople policies, more policies and decisions that have further pushed citizens to the precipice were dished out including floating of the dollar, that has made naira a no use in the international money market, hike in elecrricity tarriff, and worse of all, the disappearance of operations of not a few multinational businesses.

” alt=”” aria-hidden=”true” />Microsoft announced the shutting down of its development centre in Nigeria, just two years after the opening of the centre in Lagos. This development adversley affected Nigerians, many of whom were employees in the firms and others.

In 2023, GlaxoSmithKline, Nigeria’s second-biggest drug producer, unceremoniously left the country after 51 years of operation. The British pharmaceutical giant said its prescription medicines and vaccines will only be sold in the country through third-party distributors. The same fate befell Unilever which shut down its home care and skin cleansing business. In the same 2023, another pharmaceutical multinational, Sanofi, left Nigeria.

Procter & Gamble (P&G), the US consumer goods powerhouse, which has been operating in the country for 30 years and ran two manufacturing plants in Ibadan, Oyo State and Agbara, Ogun State, closed down business operations and switched to only importation activity, describing the Nigeria market as problematic for the corporation.

Other companies that have called it quits with Nigeria since the advent of the Tinubu administration are Equinor Nigeria Energy Company (ENEC), a Norwegian energy corporation, which holds a 53.85 percent ownership in oil mining lease (OML) 128, including a 20.21 percent stake in the Agbami field, operated by Chevron. The company announced the sale of its Nigerian operations after three decades in the country’s energy market, including the company’s stake in Agbami oil field which were all sold to a Nigerian-owned firm, Chappal Energies.

Jumia Food and Bolt Foods also joined the long queue of companies that left Nigeria in December 2023. All blamed the rising and unstable foreign exchange rates and other unbearable government policies.

But the Tinubu government has continually told everyone that all was well, and the economy is on the right footing.

It is worth knowing that these aforementioned companies are known and in the limelight bwcause they are foreign companies. This is saying that in the alleged bad governance policies, private owned companies, the SMEs who could not even withstand the harsh inflation and cost of doing business have also packed up, as a direct consequence of the subsidy is gone pronouncement. These closures created wide gap of joblessness, unemployment and resultant hardship and hunger. This also heightened the spate of insecurity, thuggery, armed and petty robbery, kidnapping, banditry and outright terrorism.

It was not therefore, a surprise when out of the blues, a notice of 10-day long protest tagged #EndBadGovernance in Nigeria was initiated. The organizers, who were originally dismissed as faceless, outlined its demands including a reverse to previous electricity tariff regime, return of subsidy among other demands.

The Tinubu addressed any of the demands, but engaged in propaganda and threats using instrumentality of government, thugs, traditional institutions as in Lagos State, emergency groups and more. The protest however, held, and was successful in states, but failed in many other states, especially in the southeast.

After the third day when it became violent in the north east and west regions, President Tinubu addressed the nation. But Nigerians across board described his broadcast as porous and failed to address the spirit of the protest, which was a demand for end of hunger and hardship. Tinubu asked for more time, reiterating that his policies are for the good of the nation, no matter how unbearable they are.

He said, “In the past 14 months, our government has made significant strides in rebuilding the foundation of our economy to carry us into a future of plenty and abundance. On the fiscal side, aggregate government revenues have more than doubled, hitting over 9.1 trillion Naira in the first half of 2024 compared to the first half of 2023 due to our efforts at blocking leakages, introducing automation, and mobilising funding creatively without additional burden on the people. Productivity is gradually increasing in the non-oil sector, reaching new levels and taking advantage of the opportunities in the current economic ambience.

“My dear brothers and sisters, we have come this far. Coming from a place where our country spent 97% of all our revenue on debt service; we have been able to reduce that to 68% in the last 13 months. We have also cleared legitimate outstanding foreign exchange obligations of about $5billion without any adverse impact on our programmes.

“This has given us more financial freedom and the room to spend more money on you, our citizens, to fund essential social services like education and healthcare. It has also led to our State, and Local Governments receiving the highest allocations ever in our country’s history from the Federation Account.”

However, personalities like former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, Nobel Laureate, Wole Soyinka among others derided the speech as lacking in substance, and failed to address the issue of hunger, which is the major reason for the protest.

According to Soyinka, the president also failed to mentioned the extrajudicial killings of some protesters by security agencies during the uprising.

“His outline of the government’s remedial action since inception, aimed at warding off just such an outbreak, will undoubtedly receive expert and sustained attention both for effectiveness and in content analysis. My primary concern, quite predictably, is the continuing deterioration of the state’s seizure of protest management, an area in which the presidential address fell conspicuously short,” Soyinka said.

In his response former VP Atiku said, “His speech neglects the pressing economic hardships that have besieged Nigerian families since the very beginning of his tenure.

“This address lacks credibility and fails to offer any immediate, tangible solutions to the Nigerian people. Given the extensive publicity surrounding the protests and the threats issued by government officials against demonstrators, one would have expected President Tinubu to present groundbreaking reforms, particularly those aimed at reducing the exorbitant costs of governance.

“But alas, no such announcements were made. The President ignored the protesters’ demands, such as suspending the purchase of aircraft for the President, downsizing his bloated cabinet, or even eliminating the costly and burdensome office of the First Lady, who has been indulging in extravagant trips at the nation’s expense.”

Other than Tinubu’s apologists, loyalists and direct beneficiaries of his government, the entire nation is constantly voicing the fact that food is in dire need before families begin to slump in mid motion as a result of inherent and uncontrolled hunger.

It is not known the direction any other protest will take in the near future, but the truth remains that the government of Tinubu must rise to the occasion, and remedy an already messed up situation so that Nigerians can heave a little sigh of relief in the buildup to returning to economic statusquo before a new direction is carved.

But notable Nigerians like veteran journalists, Chief Dele Momodu, has said there is no hope of recovery for the economy if Tinubu continues in the direction he is going.

In an article titled, “A Nation in Pain,” where he insisted that only a miracle can avert what awaits the country, Momodu said, “Let those who still care plead with these people to have mercy on Nigeria. No matter how long Tinubu spends, he will fail spectacularly and sink Nigeria, unless he can drastically reduce the insensitivity and the ongoing jamborees in his government. Sadly, he doesn’t seem inclined that way.”

It’s obvious that time is ticking on Tinubu as a result of the non-availability of food, what may not be obvious is the trend of the next protest.

Yes, a new constitution is good to address lopsided affairs, but availability of food is the most important thing at the moment because citizens have to be alive to put together a new constitution.

Headline

Badagry Mourns Passage of Oba Akran Amid Sobriety, Restriction of Movement

Published

13 hours ago

January 13, 2026

Eric

Badagry, a historic coastal town renowned for its rich cultural heritage, was on Monday enveloped in a sombre and brooding mood following the passing of its 89-year-old monarch, De Wheno Aholu Menu-Toyi I, the Akran of Badagry.

The revered monarch, who reigned for 48 years, was a towering figure in the history and development of the ancient coastal town.

He was a journalist before ascending the throne of his forefathers on April 23, 1977.

His long reign was marked by peace, unity and steady community development across Badagry and its environs.

As Permanent Vice-Chairman of the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs, his counsel and leadership carried significant influence within traditional institutions across the State.

He was widely respected as a devoted custodian of Ogu culture and tradition, as well as a passionate advocate for the welfare of his people.

From the early hours of Monday, an unusual calm descended on the ancient kingdom as residents struggled to come to terms with the loss of their traditional ruler.

Markets that normally buzz with activities witnessed low patronage, while groups of residents gathered sparsely in streets and compounds, exchanging restrained conversations.

At the Akran’s palace, it was learnt that the atmosphere was pensive as chiefs and community leaders’ showed grief.

There were restrictions on vehicular movements around the palace vicinity with some sections of the road leading to the place barricaded. Commuters were said to be directed to take alternative routes.

Sources said the traditional worshippers may have started observing rites necessitated by the demise of the monarch. Security and palace officials were seen restricting movement in the immediate vicinity.

Residents said the rites would affect social and commercial activities around the palace and may force many residents especially those working outside Badagry to return home early.

Many residents described the late Akran as a symbol of unity, stability and cultural pride for Badagry. They recalled his role in preserving the town’s customs and mediating communal disputes, while youths spoke of a monarch who encouraged peace and respect for tradition amid modern challenges.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), some sons and daughters of the late king were at the palace, with some seen openly weeping.

A traditional chief, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the Akran passed on at about 1:30 am, but confirmation of his death was made at about 5:30 am.

“The Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Babatunde Hunpe, has been informed, and we hope he will relay the information to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for an official announcement.

“That is why many of us are seated here at the palace to receive visitors. The Akran has gone to rest with his great ancestors,” he said.

Headline

Rivers Impeachment Brouhaha: Wike, Fubara ‘Run’ Abroad to Meet Tinubu

Published

2 days ago

January 11, 2026

Eric

By Eric Elezuo

The fragile peace that sprout out in Rivers State after the six months Emergency Rule declared by President Bola Tinubu, has suddenly collapsed as the two major gladiators; the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike and Rivers State governor, Siminalayi Fubara, have returned to the war front.

This is as the 26 legislators loyal to the FCT minister have initiated an impeachment proceedings against the sitting governor, Fubara, accusing him of gross misconduct roped in 8-count charges.

The lawmakers during a session on Thursday, presided over by Speaker of the House, Martin Amaewhule, are accusing Fubara and his deputy, Dr. Ngozi Oduh, of gross misconduct.

Observers have said that the day’s proceedings bear the imprimatur of renewed hostilities between Fubara and his predecessor Nyesom Wike, minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

Rrcall that onn December 5, 2025, a horde of the Rivers assembly lawmakers led by the speaker, announced their defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), and days later, Fubara formalised his own switch from the PDP to the APC.

By the renewed hostilities, the two feuding personalities are seeking the support of the president, who it is believed can quench the rising tension, to either impeach the Chief Executive or survive the impeachment process.

A report monitored on Businessday Newspaper noted therfore, that President Bola Tinubu has once again intervened in the lingering political crisis between Fubara, and Wike.

According to the paper, quoting credible sources, the President summoned Wike for a crucial meeting abroad over the renewed face-off, which has reignited tensions in the oil-rich state, even as the president is still holidaying abroad.

The paper also The Punch, said a top presidential source disclosed on Saturday that the meeting is expected to be held in Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE), where Tinubu will be heading after a brief stay in France.

“The President must see the danger in what Wike is doing. I am aware he has summoned him to a meeting in Dubai. Barring any last-minute change, they are expected to meet abroad. Wike cannot impeach Fubara; the President will call him to order,” the source said.

The source added that Wike’s recent actions constituted an affront to the President and could potentially trigger unrest in the Niger Delta.

“If you say you want to sack the first Ijaw man to be governor, are you not sending the Ijaw people back to the creeks? That will have attendant effects on the economy, and the President will not allow that to happen,” he warned.

According to reports, tension heightened on Thursday after 27 members of the Rivers State House of Assembly, loyal to Wike, initiated fresh impeachment proceedings against Governor Fubara and his deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu.

The impeachment notice, read by Majority Leader, Major Jack, during plenary presided over by Speaker Martins Amaewhule, contained seven allegations of gross misconduct against the governor.

These include the demolition of the Assembly complex, extra-budgetary spending, and refusal to comply with a Supreme Court ruling on legislative financial autonomy.

Deputy Governor Odu was accused of “reckless and unconstitutional spending of public funds” and “obstructing the Assembly from performing its duties.”

Speaker Amaewhule described the impeachment move as “good and in the interest of Rivers State,” accusing Fubara of undermining the Assembly by failing to present the 2026 budget.

The latest move mirrors the earlier impeachment crisis that led to the declaration of a state of emergency in Rivers in March 2025.

Despite Tinubu’s earlier mediation, the fragile peace between Wike and Fubara collapsed just months after the end of the six-month emergency rule.

Wike accused Fubara of reneging on their post-truce agreements, while Fubara fired subtle jabs at his predecessor.

A senior aide to the President told reporters that Tinubu was aware of the escalating situation but declined to confirm any planned meeting with Wike.

“Only Wike or his aides can say if there is any scheduled meeting between him and the President,” the official said.

However, a senior APC official confirmed that national leaders of the party planned to meet Tinubu when he returns to Nigeria to discuss the growing discontent over Wike’s conduct.

“Some of our leaders believe Wike should have respected the President and the party because Fubara is now one of our governors,” the official said. “Even if he won’t get a second term, he should be allowed to complete his tenure.”

Meanwhile, Wike has been touring Rivers local councils, soliciting and accepting approvals from loyalists just as Fubara has asked for calm from members while they wait on the president.

Headline

Atiku Will Not Withdraw for Anyone, ADC Ticket Must Be Earned in Open Contest – Paul Ibe

Published

5 days ago

January 8, 2026

Eric

Media Adviser to former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, Paul Ibe, has insisted that neither Atiku nor any other aspirant in the African Democratic Congress (ADC) opposition coalition will step aside, stressing that the party’s presidential ticket must be earned through a transparent and competitive process.

Speaking in an interview with ARISE News on Wednesday, Ibe said calls for Atiku to withdraw from the race undermine democratic principles and play into what he described as the ruling All Progressives Congress’ alleged plan to weaken opposition politics.

“Inclusiveness is the essence of democracy. The ADC remains committed to an open, transparent and competitive process for choosing its flag bearer. Any call for Atiku Abubakar to step aside is a betrayal of the Nigerian people,” he said.

Ibe accused the administration of President Bola Tinubu of interfering in the internal affairs of opposition parties, alleging an agenda to impose a one-party state on Nigeria.

“The Tinubu-led administration should be focused on governance — security, the economy, the welfare of Nigerians — but instead, they are dabbling into opposition politics. That is dangerous for democracy,” he said.

He dismissed claims that Atiku dominates the ADC, describing such narratives as “mischief.”

“Atiku Abubakar is just a member of the ADC. Yes, he is a leader, a former vice president, but he is not the only leader. There are leaders across the country, and he is working with them to build party structures,” Ibe said.

According to him, the party’s current priority is grassroots mobilisation, not ticket permutations.

“Talking about who gets the ticket now is putting the cart before the horse. A house without pillars will collapse. The ADC is building structures — ward, local government, state — and that is where the focus should be.”

On speculation about possible compromises with other aspirants such as Peter Obi and Rotimi Amaechi, Ibe said no discussion has taken place regarding relinquishing the presidential ticket.

“There has been no conversation whatsoever about stepping down for anyone. Their preoccupation is building a robust alternative platform capable of giving the APC a run for its money.”

Addressing reports of alliances involving figures outside the ADC, including Rabiu Kwankwaso and former President Olusegun Obasanjo, Ibe said such talks were external to the party.

“Rabiu Kwankwaso is not a member of the ADC. Whatever discussions are happening are outside the party. But the ADC is expanding, reaching out, and more people will come on board.”

He maintained that the ADC leadership has ruled out automatic tickets, insisting the process will not be dictated by external forces.

“The party has made it clear: no automatic tickets. The outcome of the primaries will be determined by party members, not outside influence.”

Responding to questions about Atiku’s age and repeated presidential bids, Ibe rejected suggestions that the former vice president should step aside to mentor successors.

“Age has nothing to do with leadership. Atiku has mentored governors, lawmakers and public servants over the years. He is patriotic, passionate, and deeply committed to Nigeria.”

He added:

“If you analyse his blood, you will find Nigeria in it. Nobody has been more prepared to govern than Atiku Abubakar.”

Ibe also alleged that Nigeria’s last two presidential elections were rigged, arguing that Atiku’s defeats were not a reflection of public trust.

“The elections of 2019 and 2023 were rigged. This is not about trust; it is about institutions failing Nigerians.”

On fears that opposition divisions could again hand victory to the ruling party in 2027, Ibe said opposition leaders had learned from past mistakes.

“This is not about personal ambition. It is a call to national duty. Leaders understand what is at stake and have learned from 2023.”

He further alleged attempts by the ruling party to infiltrate and destabilise the ADC.

“The Tinubu camp does not want an opposition. They are funding court cases and using state resources to undermine the ADC, but the party is taking steps to ensure they fail.”

However, Ibe said some details could not be disclosed publicly.

“There are things I cannot share on camera, but the leadership and stakeholders are fully aware.”

Asked what would happen if Atiku loses the ADC primary, Ibe said his principal would accept the outcome.

“Atiku Abubakar will submit himself to the process and support whoever emerges as the presidential candidate of the ADC.”