CHRICED to Tinubu: Prioritize poor, fix security, economy

By Abubakar Yunusa

The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has called on the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize the needs of poor and vulnerable Nigerians in the coming year while addressing pressing economic and security challenges.

In a press briefing on Tuesday, CHRICED’s Executive Director, Comrade Ibrahim Zikirullahi, proposed empowering Nigeria’s 774 local government areas as a foundation for economic recovery and industrial growth.

“The government must establish clear structures for social protection and move away from politically motivated handouts disguised as poverty alleviation programs,” Zikirullahi said.

CHRICED criticized the stark wage gap between political office holders and civil servants, describing it as unjust. While Nigerian Senators reportedly earn N31 million monthly, many civil servants struggle to survive on N70,000.

“This disparity is grossly inequitable, leaving hardworking Nigerians unable to make ends meet, while politicians benefit disproportionately from public resources,” he noted.

The group also warned against the risks posed by a one-party system, urging the government to safeguard Nigeria’s democratic framework by promoting political diversity and protecting citizens’ rights to participate in the political process.

CHRICED called for substantial judicial and police reforms to root out corruption and enhance the integrity of these institutions. “Justice is the backbone of any thriving democracy, and President Tinubu has a chance to establish a lasting legacy by reforming the judiciary,” Zikirullahi stated.

He also emphasized the need for an overhaul of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure credible elections and prevent violent conflicts.

The group condemned the government’s failure to address the growing insecurity across the country. It cited continued insurgent activity in the Northeast, rampant banditry in the Northwest, militia attacks in the Southeast, and rising organized crime in the Southwest.

“Attacks on critical infrastructure, such as power lines, have further disrupted lives and businesses, with power outages lasting weeks in the northern region,” Zikirullahi said.

A recent report by the National Bureau of Statistics revealed that over two million kidnapping incidents occurred between May 2023 and April 2024, with ransoms totaling N2.2 trillion paid to criminals.

CHRICED described these figures as alarming, urging the government to justify its security expenditures by ensuring the safety of citizens.

The organization urged civil society groups to unite in holding political office holders accountable while also calling on the government to protect fundamental rights, including freedom of assembly and expression.

Zikirullahi concluded, “The government has no excuse for failing to secure lives and property, as mandated by the Nigerian Constitution. It must prioritize the welfare and security of its citizens to restore public trust and confidence in its leadership.”