Lagos, Nigeria – July 18, 2024
In a striking and candid open letter, Dele Momodu, a prominent opposition figure and seasoned journalist, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently address the deteriorating state of Nigeria’s economy and governance. The letter, which has garnered widespread attention, outlines a series of pressing concerns and provides blunt advice on steering the nation towards stability.
**A Call for Truth and Accountability**
Momodu, emphasizing his long-standing relationship with President Tinubu, begins the letter with a heartfelt plea for truth and transparency. He expresses concern over the tendency for sycophants to surround powerful leaders, leading to a dangerous detachment from reality. “I owe you only one thing, TRUTH,” Momodu writes, underscoring the critical need for honest counsel in the corridors of power.
**Criticism of Fiscal Mismanagement**
The letter highlights Nigeria’s economic woes, describing the situation as a near collapse. Momodu criticizes the administration’s excessive spending on luxury items and unnecessary projects, such as the purchase of Presidential jets and the construction of extravagant monuments. He argues that these expenditures are reckless at a time when frugality is essential, calling for a redirection of resources towards meaningful development initiatives.
**Performance as the Path to Re-Election**
Addressing President Tinubu’s apparent aspirations for a second term, Momodu advises that genuine performance and tangible results are the best guarantees for re-election. He advocates for substantial investments in vocational training for the youth, the enhancement of local agriculture, and significant improvements in the educational sector. Momodu condemns the distribution of cash to politicians, labeling it as counterproductive and indicative of a lack of vision.
**Political Strategy and Internal Discipline**
Momodu also warns President Tinubu about the dangers of being surrounded by hero-worshippers within the National Assembly. He urges the President to listen to trusted advisers like Senator Ali Ndume and to enforce strict discipline within his administration. Specifically, Momodu calls for sanctions against Nyesom Wike for public disrespect in the Fubara matter, warning that unchecked actions could lead the nation into chaos.
**Conclusion**
Dele Momodu’s open letter serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for corrective measures in Nigeria’s governance. Whether President Tinubu will act on these suggestions remains to be seen, but the message is clear: there are influential voices advocating for truth, accountability, and genuine leadership at the highest levels of government.
This publication will continue to monitor any responses or actions taken by President Tinubu in light of this urgent and heartfelt plea from a notable political adversary and longtime acquaintance.
