Human Rights Advocate Calls for Urgent Government Action to Alleviate Hardship in Nigeria
Sheriff Mlade, a prominent human rights and development advocate from the Niger Delta, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take decisive action to combat the escalating hunger, hardship, and insecurity affecting Nigeria. In a statement released yesterday from Warri, Delta State, Mlade expressed his deep concern over a rising wave of deaths attributed to economic distress, asserting that many Nigerians are “dying quietly and openly” due to worsening living conditions.
Mlade’s critique extends to political leaders who prioritize their re-election efforts over the urgent socio-economic issues facing citizens nationwide. He emphasized, “We must rise to the challenge and stop the avoidable deaths of everyday Nigerians due to leadership failures in safeguarding the welfare of our people.”
As a United Nations Peace Ambassador, Mlade acknowledged that the relative stability in the Niger Delta can be largely attributed to youth engagement through pipeline monitoring contracts. He pointed out that the ongoing contracts with Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited and Pipeline Infrastructure Limited have provided economic opportunities for local youths, contributing to an improved security situation. He warned that without these initiatives, the region’s security could deteriorate further than in other troubled areas of the country, leading Nigeria towards economic collapse.
Ibe Solimowei, a representative from the oil-rich Gbaramatu Kingdom in Delta State, echoed Mlade’s sentiments, stressing the importance of maintaining these surveillance contracts. He cautioned that canceling them, particularly ahead of the 2027 elections, could exacerbate both security and economic challenges. Solimowei underscored that the government’s primary duty is to protect its citizens and their property.
“The Federal Government of Nigeria, under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, must not neglect its citizens in a quest for re-election,” he stated. “People are losing faith in the government, as political leaders appear more concerned with retaining power than with fostering economic stability and safeguarding public welfare.”
Mlade appealed for immediate intervention, stating, “President Tinubu must act now to prevent Nigeria from spiraling into further despair. We aspire to be Africa’s leading economic power, not just in terms of population and territory.”
Political Coalition in Edo State Demands Resignation of Governor Amid Ongoing Hardships
The Coalition of Registered Political Parties (CRPP) has expressed alarm regarding the escalating hardships faced by citizens in Edo State, describing the situation as unprecedented in the state’s history. During a meeting on Monday, the coalition called for the resignation of Governor Okpeboro, citing his failure to effectively address the deteriorating living conditions of residents.
Dr. Samson Isibor, the National Chairman of the CRPP, issued a statement following peaceful protests in Benin City, where residents voiced their frustrations over rising petrol prices, inconsistent electricity supply, poor road conditions, and soaring food costs. The coalition urged the government to take immediate action to alleviate these pressing issues.
Mr. Isibor remarked on the dire circumstances in Edo State, noting, “Poverty is palpable everywhere; the situation has reached a breaking point.” He highlighted the ongoing security challenges, rampant kidnappings, high unemployment rates, exorbitant rent prices, and the lack of infrastructure as critical indicators of the government’s inadequate response.
The CRPP supported the recent protests as a means to draw attention from both state and federal governments to the critical state of affairs within Edo. Isibor criticized Governor Okpeboro’s administration for its lack of visible efforts to improve the lives of residents, stating, “The governor’s complacency is unacceptable; he must either engage seriously with these issues or resign.”
He concluded by calling for immediate reforms to address the alarming poverty levels, expressing concern that the governor is more focused on future elections than on the pressing needs of his constituents. The CRPP’s demand reflects a broader frustration with political leadership across Nigeria amidst a backdrop of social and economic despair.
