A prominent member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Bode George, has strongly criticized President Bola Tinubu for traveling to France amid Nigeria’s ongoing security challenges, hunger, and economic hardship. George, a former Deputy National Chairman of the PDP, expressed his dismay over what he described as the president’s lack of focus on the nation’s urgent problems.
In a statement titled Whither Nigeria, My Beloved Country, George accused President Tinubu of abandoning the country at a time when insecurity, food scarcity, unemployment, and other social issues are overwhelming Nigerians. He voiced his concern that while the country is grappling with multiple crises, the Tinubu-led administration has prioritized what he considers less significant issues, such as the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Kogi Central.
“Today, and with the series of crises— insecurity, hunger, joblessness, and other vices in the country—President Bola Tinubu has taken off to Paris, France for reasons best known to him and his handlers,” George wrote in his statement. “Nigerians don’t feel safe anymore in their fatherland, but the Federal Government, the All Progressives Congress (APC), and the Senate are only interested in recalling Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan. What a shame!”
George’s remarks reflect the growing frustration among many Nigerians who feel that the government has not done enough to address the worsening security situation, economic struggles, and rising costs of living. He lamented that the government seemed preoccupied with trivial matters while the country’s citizens suffer.
One of the key issues raised by George was the state of insecurity in Nigeria. Over the past few years, the country has been plagued by a surge in violent crimes, including kidnappings, banditry, terrorism, and communal clashes. These challenges have made life difficult for many Nigerians, particularly in rural areas where criminal activities often go unchecked.
Despite efforts by the government to tackle the issue, including military operations and other security measures, many parts of the country remain unsafe, with citizens unable to go about their daily lives without fear. The violence has also caused a large displacement of people, with many fleeing their homes to escape the threat of attack.
George’s criticism comes at a time when President Tinubu’s administration has faced growing calls to prioritize national security and take more decisive action to curb the wave of violence. For many, the president’s trip to France in the midst of these ongoing issues sends the wrong message, signaling a lack of urgency in addressing the country’s most pressing concerns.
In addition to the security crisis, Nigeria is also grappling with significant economic challenges. The country is facing inflation, a rising cost of living, and widespread poverty. Many Nigerians are struggling to meet basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare.
According to George, the Nigerian people are enduring a painful struggle with hunger, which he believes the government has failed to address adequately. The country’s agricultural sector, which once held the promise of providing food security for the population, has been severely impacted by insecurity, poor infrastructure, and economic mismanagement. This has led to food shortages and increased prices, making it difficult for many Nigerians to afford even basic food items.
Unemployment is another major concern. The youth population, in particular, has been hit hard by joblessness, with many graduates finding it difficult to secure meaningful employment. This has contributed to a sense of disillusionment, particularly among young Nigerians, who feel that the government is not doing enough to create opportunities for them.
George’s statement also drew attention to what he perceives as a misplaced priority by the government. He pointed out that while the country faces serious challenges, the government and the Senate appear more focused on political matters, such as the recall of Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan from Kogi Central. For George, this serves as a symbol of the APC-led administration’s misplaced priorities in the face of widespread suffering among the Nigerian people.
The recall of a senator may be an important political matter, but for George, it pales in comparison to the need for urgent government intervention to address the nation’s security and economic crises. He expressed disappointment that while Nigerians are in dire need of leadership, the government seems preoccupied with political squabbles and issues that do not directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
On Wednesday, President Tinubu traveled to France, sparking further outrage from critics like George. Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, confirmed that the president had departed Nigeria for the trip and was expected to return in about two weeks. While the details of the trip have not been fully disclosed, it has been reported that the president’s visit is focused on matters of national interest, including foreign relations and business opportunities.
However, George and other critics argue that Tinubu’s foreign trip sends the wrong message to Nigerians, who are struggling with insecurity, hunger, and economic hardship. For them, the president’s absence during such a critical period is seen as a failure to lead and prioritize the needs of the people.
In his statement, George warned that the country’s current political trajectory could lead to further instability, drawing parallels to the collapse of Nigeria’s previous republics. He referenced the song by Fela Kuti, the legendary Nigerian musician, whose lyrics about corruption and misgovernance continue to resonate decades after they were written.
Bode George’s statement reflects a broader sense of dissatisfaction with the current administration’s handling of national issues. Many Nigerians feel that the government has not done enough to address the worsening security situation, the economic hardships, and the rising cost of living. Critics argue that the government must take immediate action to improve the lives of citizens and restore confidence in the country’s leadership.
