In the history of our political landscape, Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s trajectory has both been remarkable and controversial. Known for his fierce opposition to bad governance and oppression in the early 1990s, Tinubu’s journey from a champion of the downtrodden to the President of Nigeria, whose tenure has been marked by allegations of authoritarianism and detrimental policies, provides a fascinating case study in our political evolution.
In 1994, Bola Ahmed Tinubu emerged as a formidable force in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement. At that time, we were remarkably under the iron-fisted rule of the late General Sani Abacha, whose regime was marked by widespread corruption, human rights abuses, and a disregard for democratic principles. Tinubu, then a prominent member of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) and a vocal critic of military rule, became a symbol of resistance against that oppressive government.
Tinubu’s activism during this period was characterized by his unyielding stance against the junta’s attempts to stifle democratic aspirations. He was a key figure in the push for the restoration of civilian rule and the protection of fundamental human rights. His vocal criticisms, public protests, and advocacy for democratic reforms no doubt earned him widespread acclaim and positioned him as “the voice of the voiceless.”
The 1999 return to civilian rule saw Tinubu’s political fortunes rise dramatically as he was elected Governor of Lagos State, a position he held from May 29, 1999, to May 29, 2007. During his tenure, Tinubu’s governance style was marked by significant infrastructure development and urban renewal projects and his leadership was credited with transforming Lagos into a more economically vibrant and modern metropolis.
However, his time in office was not without controversy. There are still some allegations of corruption, cronyism, and the consolidation of political power are some common criticisms known to have shaped his administration till date. Nonetheless, Tinubu’s tenure was instrumental in establishing his political base and influence and it laid the groundwork for his future ambitions on the national stage.
In 2023, Tinubu ascended to the highest office in Nigeria, becoming President after a contentious election. His victory was hailed by supporters as a triumph for democratic processes and a testament to his political acumen. However, the initial optimism surrounding his presidency quickly gave way to scepticism and criticism as his administration has faced mounting challenges right from the day of his inauguration when he announced that the subsidy on petroleum products were gone.
By 2024, Tinubu’s presidency has come under intense scrutiny. Many of the qualities that once defined him as an advocate for democracy now seem to have been overshadowed by actions perceived as contrary to his earlier principles. Stemming from how state security personnel have clamped down on protesters and tried to suppress the voice of the media, it is safe to say his actions have been a stark contrast to his previous stance against such tactics.
This shift in approach has raised concerns about the erosion of democratic freedoms and the use of state power to stifle legitimate opposition. Human rights groups and opposition leaders have continued to accuse this government of employing heavy-handed tactics reminiscent of the military regimes he once fought against. The deployment of security forces to quash peaceful protests and the reported harassment of activists will also continue to spark outrage and disillusionment among Nigerians.
Additionally, his current economic policies have been met with criticism for exacerbating the hardships faced by ordinary citizens. This is so because his administration has implemented some measures that disproportionately impact the poor and vulnerable, including steep fuel price increases, tax hikes, and austerity measures and these are policies that have contributed to rising living costs and widespread economic discontent.
In a country where economic instability and social inequality are already pervasive, the recent decision by the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation Limited (NNPCL) to increase fuel pump prices will further exacerbate the plight of many Nigerians. Under the leadership of the Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s led federal government, this move should be of concern about its potential to drive more citizens into abject poverty.
While the government has argued that the increase is necessary for economic sustainability and to attract private investment, we can argue that it places an undue burden on the average Nigerian.
Let us take a look at some of the Socio-Economic Impacts that the new current pump price announced by the government will have on the economy and the average Nigerian below:
1. Increased Cost of Living
The most immediate effect of the fuel price hike is the increase in the cost of living. Fuel has been a fundamental input in the economy, affecting transportation costs, the price of goods and services, and even the cost of basic necessities.
As fuel prices rise, the cost of transportation and goods will inevitably follow, this will lead to inflationary pressures that will erode the purchasing power of consumers. For many Nigerians already living on the edge of poverty, this will translate into a heightened financial strain and a decrease in their standard of living.
2. Strain on Small Businesses
Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which form the backbone of our economy, are particularly vulnerable to fluctuations in fuel prices. These businesses often operate on thin margins and rely heavily on fuel for their operations, whether for transportation, production, or energy needs.
The increase in fuel prices can lead to higher operational costs and it will force many SMEs to either cut back on their services, reduce staff, or close altogether. The resultant loss of jobs and livelihoods will further compound the economic challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians.
3. Escalation of Poverty Levels
The combination of rising living costs and reduced economic activity has severe implications for poverty levels. As fuel prices continue to climb, those at the lower end of the economic spectrum will be pushed further into poverty.
The increase in basic living expenses, coupled with stagnant or declining incomes, means that many Nigerians may struggle to afford essential items like food, healthcare, and education. This situation risks entrenching a cycle of poverty that is difficult to escape.
The transformation of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political persona from a staunch advocate of democratic values to a president facing allegations of authoritarianism highlights a broader phenomenon in political leadership. It underscores the challenges and complexities associated with navigating the transition from opposition to governance.
Tinubu’s story is a reminder of the often-unpredictable nature of political evolution. Leaders who once championed reform and resistance to tyranny may, under the pressures of governance, adopt policies and practices that contradict their earlier principles. This shift can be influenced by various factors, including the demands of political office, the consolidation of power, and the complexities of managing a diverse and often fractious society.
As we continue to grapple with political and economic challenges, the evolution of Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership offers valuable lessons in the nature of power and governance. The juxtaposition of his early activism with his current presidency should serve as a poignant reminder of the need for vigilance and accountability in democratic societies. It should also prompt reflection on the responsibilities of leaders to remain true to their foundational principles and to prioritize the welfare and rights of their citizens.
The future of Nigeria will likely be shaped by how well its leaders can balance their responsibilities with their past commitments, ensuring that the voices of the voiceless are not only heard but also heeded in the corridors of power. Given the current economic and social climate, where should the common man turn for refuge? That is a question only the government surely has an answer to.
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Credit || Davidson Opiepie
