Thursday, August 10, 2023

When a Popular View Is Embraced by an Unpopular Administration. May 20, 2023


About three days ago, this video was highly acclaimed and was shared continuously on Facebook and WhatsApp groups. Commentators unanimously hailed the gentleman as a Nigerian who deserves a leadership appointment. In the video, he made a vigorous case for removal of fuel subsidies, stating eloquently the trillions of Naira that we stand to gain yearly if we do so. He suggested channeling the funds instead to viable uses in the public sector that would benefit every Nigerian equally. Coincidentally, in his inaugural address yesterday, President Bola Tinubu told Nigeria that his administration planned to remove the subsidy. Consequently, hoarding of fuel erupted overnight, and long lines developed at gas stations throughout our major cities in the country. My question now is: If you were one of those who celebrated this gentleman a few days ago for his strong opinion, on what ground are you now condemning the new administration for its decision on fuel subsidies. Where are the enlightened Nigerians at home and abroad who applauded this gentleman a few days ago?
Consistently, I have stood by my opinion even when I am standing alone and have nothing to gain. When the issue of section 134 (2) (b) came up, I stated unequivocally on my Facebook Wall and law class platform that subsection (b) is not an extra huddle to be surmounted by any Presidential candidate. Adding that the intention of the drafters of the subsection is to give the FCT the status of a state for the purpose of computing the overall Presidential election results. Also, when the Diplomatic Passport wahala came up a few months ago, I stated here that it is not actionable or a disqualification, but it's simply a privilege that doesn't confer citizenship of the issuing country on the recipient. Political identity has nothing to do with my position. I am a Lawyer, and ideologically, an Awoist (a Progressive Democrat) who ran against the APC Senatorial candidate in the last Senatorial election at Edo Central Senatorial District under the Accord party. I was outspent tremendously by the APC candidate who won, and I have every cause to become antagonistic toward his political party and the new President and his policies. But my conscience and the Lawyer in me won't allow me.
All reactions:
Mike Imhanluohan
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