Mr. Kehinde Alagbada, a social activist based in Abuja, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take swift action to alleviate the growing hunger crisis in Nigeria, which he believes is fueling widespread protests among frustrated citizens.
Reports from DAILY POST indicate that despite various initiatives from the government, Nigerians have mobilized across the nation, expressing their dissatisfaction over the escalating hardship and suffering many are experiencing.
In an open letter addressed to the President during the ongoing demonstrations, Alagbada expressed his confidence in Tinubu’s leadership but stressed the urgency of the situation. “Hungry individuals are often angry. I have witnessed this reality firsthand. It is imperative that you take immediate steps to combat hunger and prevent further unrest,” he stated.
Alagbada urged the President to convene discussions with Nigerians who possess innovative solutions to tackle these pressing issues. “Please make every effort to address these challenges and involve more capable voices in the conversation,” he implored.
A self-proclaimed patriot and admirer of President Tinubu, Alagbada acknowledged receiving numerous letters and complaints from citizens, encompassing both feasible and unrealistic demands. He emphasized the need to focus on addressing the realistic concerns of the populace promptly.
“I align with President Tinubu’s vision for a Nigeria where the disadvantaged can thrive, the visually impaired can regain their sight, agriculture flourishes, and every child has access to quality education. I commend you for your strides thus far, including local government autonomy and student loan initiatives that have had a positive impact on people’s lives.”
However, he criticized the handling of a recent rice distribution initiative, where substantial allocations were reportedly mismanaged. “The millions allocated to federal lawmakers for rice distribution in December were squandered, as the intended recipients never received the aid. Some lawmakers utilized only five percent of the funds for the project, pocketing the remainder for themselves.”
Alagbada further expressed concerns about the performance of certain cabinet members, stating, “Even among your supporters, there is frustration due to the inefficacy of some members of your team. The Renewed Hope agenda transcends these individuals.”
He encouraged President Tinubu to consider replacing cabinet members who hinder progress within his administration, asserting that countless capable Nigerians could deliver better outcomes if given the opportunity.
Moreover, Alagbada called on the President to create employment and empowerment opportunities for the youth, warning, “If they remain idle, they may become susceptible to negative influences.”