The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has held a briefing on the state of the nation, condemning the economic hardships, wasteful spending, and human rights abuses that have plagued the country under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
In a statement read by Executive Director Ibrahim M. Zikirullahi, CHRICED noted that the Nigerian people are facing severe economic hardships due to the government’s harsh and unkind policies. The organization also condemned the government’s lack of inventiveness and critical thinking in implementing palliative programs, such as the recent N5 billion grant and loan program for state governments, which has been marred by disorganization and a lack of transparency.
CHRICED also expressed outrage at the National Assembly’s decision to vote N68.52 billion for the purchase of SUVs, as well as the recent provisions in the supplementary budget that approved N7bn to renovate the President and Vice President residences in Lagos and N1.5bn for an official vehicle for the unconstitutional office of the First Lady. The organization described these expenditures as wasteful and insensitive, especially in light of the current economic hardship facing the Nigerian people.
CHRICED also condemned the government’s continued reliance on borrowing, noting that Nigeria’s foreign debt is projected to rise further to about $51 billion. The organization expressed concern that the government is borrowing money without a clear plan for how it will be used to improve the lives of citizens.
In addition to the economic challenges, CHRICED also condemned the government’s human rights record, noting that the space for civic engagement has become increasingly hostile. The organization pointed to the recent assault on Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President Joe Ajaero as a tragic example of this trend.
CHRICED called on the government to take immediate steps to address the economic and human rights challenges facing the country. The organization also urged citizens to hold the government accountable for its actions and to demand better governance.
Key recommendations made by CHRICED:
The government must end its profligate spending and consult widely with citizens on priorities before seeking any further loans.
The government must put in place a framework for ensuring that loans are used to achieve the project milestones agreed with Nigerians.
The government must respect the rights of citizens to freedom of expression and assembly, and end all forms of repression and intimidation of civic actors.
Citizens must hold the government accountable for its actions and demand better governance.