Senator Shehu Sani has called on President Bola Tinubu to remain attuned to the challenges faced by Nigerians while rolling out economic reforms.
In a recent interview, Sani recognized that such reforms can often lead to short-term hardships but emphasized that the burden should not rest solely on the shoulders of the public.
He urged leaders to exemplify sacrifice in their lifestyles to motivate citizens and foster a sense of shared responsibility.
According to Sani, any economic reforms must prioritize the welfare of the populace to avoid exacerbating the suffering of vulnerable groups. He stated, “No president has ever introduced a reform that was immediately popular. However, public perception can shift when people begin to see the positive outcomes of their struggles.”
He further asserted, “You cannot implement reforms that cause hardship and deny people their basic needs, expecting applause in return. That has never occurred anywhere.”
Sani acknowledged the inherent risks involved when attempting to transform the political and economic landscape of a nation. He insisted that reforms must be rooted in the well-being of the citizens, warning against allowing conditions to deteriorate to a point where basic necessities become unattainable.
“It’s crucial for the president to consider the suffering of the people while enacting these economic changes. Sacrifices must be demonstrated across all levels of society,” he remarked.
Highlighting the plight of families unable to afford school fees or basic food items, Sani argued that leaders must also exhibit their own sacrifices. “If leaders indulge in lavish lifestyles and ostentation, they cannot expect citizens to make sacrifices,” he noted.
He concluded by stressing that sacrifices should be made universally, asserting, “Patriotism should not be a burden borne only by the less fortunate. The wealthy, influential, and those in positions of power must also be prepared to make sacrifices for the greater good.”
