One-Year Anniversary: Tinubu Completes 365 Days of Praise and Criticism

Today, May 29, marks one year since Bola Ahmed Tinubu was sworn in as president of Nigeria, the world’s largest black nation.

Tinubu became the fifth democratically elected president since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, following his victory in the tightly contested 2023 presidential election.

At 72, Tinubu ran on the platform of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and won against his closest rivals, Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Peter Obi of the Labour Party (LP).

However, his victory was met with mixed reactions, allegations of electoral malpractice, and a subsequent legal battle.

Despite the controversy, Tinubu’s inauguration on May 29, 2023, marked a new chapter in Nigeria’s democratic journey.

The past year, as observed by DAILY POST, has been characterized by significant political dynamics, with Tinubu’s administration navigating a complex landscape of expectations, challenges, and diverse opinions on its performance and policies.

The administration’s policies and decisions have sparked a wide range of reactions from different segments of society, creating a “gbas gbos” (back-and-forth) across the nation.

Renewed Hope: A Journey Marred by Controversies

Many political observers believe Tinubu started off on the wrong foot by announcing the removal of the fuel subsidy on his inauguration day.

The president admitted that the removal of the fuel subsidy was not part of his inaugural speech, but he “went out of his way” to announce it in the best interest of Nigerians.

While Tinubu was still delivering his inaugural speech, oil marketers quickly adjusted fuel pump prices to about N500 per liter. A few weeks later, the fuel price further increased to about N617-N1000 per liter, depending on the region.

This move has been seen by many as causing significant hardship for Nigerians, contributing to high inflation and skyrocketing prices of commodities by about 300%.

In less than a year, the government has faced two total shutdowns by organized labor due to the ongoing suffering from the fuel subsidy removal.

Betta Edugate – An Unexpected Scandal

Within six months of Tinubu’s administration, a major scandal erupted involving the APC-led government. The Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Betta Edu, faced allegations of corruption.

Edu, 37, previously the National Women Leader of the APC, was accused of financial embezzlement and abuse of power in her ministry. She allegedly transferred N585.189 million meant for vulnerable groups into a private account, sparking national outrage.

President Tinubu suspended Edu and ordered a thorough investigation, the results of which are still awaited, with Edu remaining suspended.

Is Subsidy Truly Gone?

Contrary to the claim that the fuel subsidy has been removed, there are allegations that the federal government is still paying subsidies. The World Bank and Robert Dickerman, CEO of Pinnacle Oil and Gas Limited, asserted that the government continues to subsidize fuel.

Activist and lawyer Femi Falana urged the government to clarify the situation and address the opacity surrounding fuel importation. He emphasized the need for transparency, especially since there is no provision for fuel subsidy in the 2023 and 2024 Appropriation Acts.

Renewed Hope – The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly

The Tinubu/Shettima 2023 campaign was anchored on a policy document titled “Renewed Hope,” focusing on national security, economy, agriculture, power, oil and gas, transportation, education, the digital economy, youth and women empowerment, and more.

With the fuel subsidy removed and rising prices, many Nigerians feel the impact of “Renewed Hope” is yet to be felt.

Insecurity – The Bloodbaths Continue

Despite prioritizing national security with increased funding for security agencies and strategic initiatives to combat insurgency and banditry, Nigeria still faces significant security challenges.

Farmers in states like Benue and Plateau have abandoned their farms due to persistent clashes with herdsmen. Bandits continue to cause havoc, particularly in the northeast.

While Tinubu inherited this crisis, many believe his approach to addressing these issues is inadequate. However, groups like The Progressive Students Movement commend the administration’s efforts, citing the neutralization of numerous terrorists and criminals.

Knocks, Kudos for Tinubu’s First Year

Opinions on Tinubu’s first year in office are divided. Critics like Hon Lucky Obiyan argue the government has failed in areas such as security and economic policy. Conversely, political analysts like Okpokwu Ogenyi praise Tinubu’s efforts in tackling corruption, initiating economic reforms, and enhancing infrastructure development.

Opposition Parties – Toothless Bulldogs

There is a growing concern that Nigeria is sliding into a one-party state. The major opposition parties appear ineffective, with the Labour Party embroiled in internal crises and the PDP’s prominent members, like Nyesom Wike, aligning with the APC government.

Hope for the Future

Despite the challenges, Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, remains optimistic about Tinubu’s achievements in his first year, particularly in physical infrastructure and human capital development. He believes there is hope for Nigerians, given the groundwork laid by the administration.