Elder statesman and former Nigerian Ambassador to the Philippines, Dr. Yemi Farounbi, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt a more people-centered approach as he enters the second half of his administration. Farounbi emphasized that the President should govern on behalf of Nigerians rather than ruling over them.
In a recent appearance on the current affairs program “Frontline” on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, Farounbi evaluated Tinubu’s two years in office, pointing out that many citizens are struggling with severe economic hardship. He urged the President to move beyond mere promises and implement government policies that reflect empathy and directly address the daily challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.
Farounbi’s comments come as Nigeria marks two years since Tinubu’s rise to power following a contentious victory in the 2023 presidential election. Running on the All Progressives Congress (APC) platform, Tinubu garnered approximately 8.79 million votes, defeating key opponents Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party.
Upon taking office on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu introduced significant economic reforms, including the sudden removal of fuel subsidies and the unification of Nigeria’s multiple exchange rates. While these measures were praised by investors and economic analysts, they led to increased inflation, fuel prices, and living costs, impacting the average Nigerian.
Dr. Farounbi highlighted that Tinubu has made progress in fulfilling three key promises from his inaugural speech: the removal of the fuel subsidy, the unification of exchange rates, and significant tax reform. He stated, “In some areas, he has been very faithful to what he promised.” However, he stressed the urgent need for responsive and humane governance, especially as hunger and frustration rise among the populace.
“The President should govern on our behalf, not rule over us. He must listen to the hardships people are facing and work to alleviate them. In this second half of his administration, his policies need to have a human face,” Farounbi remarked.
While acknowledging some improvements in governance, Farounbi expressed concern over the administration’s failure to address ongoing insecurity and inconsistent electricity supply across the country. He noted, “In security, he has failed in my view, and the promise of establishing state police has not materialized after more than two years.”
Reflecting on the political landscape under the Tinubu administration, Farounbi criticized the diminishing influence of opposition parties and the concerning shift toward a one-party system. He expressed disappointment with the recent emergency rule declaration in Rivers State, stating, “It is sad to see the opposition parties becoming irrelevant while the President remains in the villa.”
In conclusion, Dr. Farounbi called on President Tinubu to enforce true federalism and prioritize the needs of all Nigerians, advocating against political favoritism to foster a more inclusive governance approach.
