A Critical Review and Relevance of Senator Shehu Sani’s Remarks to Bola Tinubu: A Call for Action by the ‘Father of Protest

This article critically examines Senator Shehu Sani’s remarks and their relevance to President Bola Tinubu’s leadership, authored by Francis John, Editor, Publisher at TipsNews Kansas City.

Senator Shehu Sani’s recent remarks directed at President Bola Tinubu have reignited political discourse in Nigeria. In his critique, Sani reminded Tinubu of his legacy as the “father of protest,” urging him to address the current unrest across the country. This statement is a powerful and timely reminder of Tinubu’s origins as an activist, calling attention to the irony of his present role as head of a government facing rising dissent.

Tinubu’s Legacy: From Protest to Power

Bola Tinubu’s political ascent is deeply intertwined with activism. As a key player in the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO), Tinubu stood firm against the military dictatorship of General Sani Abacha. His role in Nigeria’s pro-democracy movement earned him the admiration of many Nigerians, who viewed him as a defender of human rights and a symbol of resistance.

Now, as president, Tinubu faces the difficult task of governing a nation beset by protests over economic hardship and policy decisions. Senator Sani’s comments are particularly poignant, as they reflect the growing frustration of the Nigerian people who are protesting the very policies that Tinubu once stood against, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and rising economic inequality.

The Growing Discontent

Under Tinubu’s administration, Nigeria has been gripped by escalating social unrest. Economic hardship, driven by the removal of fuel subsidies and rising inflation, has prompted widespread protests. These demonstrations echo the struggles that Tinubu himself once championed. Sani’s words thus act as both a reminder and a call for Tinubu to reconnect with his roots and address the grievances of the public. The former activist is now being urged to govern with empathy, transparency, and a focus on equity—qualities that defined his earlier political career.

A Moral Obligation

Senator Sani’s remarks place a moral obligation on Tinubu to act in line with the values he once defended. As the “father of protest,” Tinubu must recognize the legitimacy of the people’s discontent and govern with the same fervor for justice that he once exhibited. The Nigerian public, having supported him as a figure of resistance, now calls upon him to deliver on the promises he made during his days as an opposition leader.

Historical Parallels

Tinubu’s situation draws comparisons with other leaders who transitioned from activism to power. Figures such as Nelson Mandela and Barack Obama faced similar challenges in reconciling their revolutionary ideals with the pragmatism required to govern. The path Tinubu takes in response to the current unrest will determine whether he remains true to his legacy or is remembered as another leader who drifted away from the values that once made him a symbol of hope.

Moving Forward

To address the growing unrest, Tinubu’s government must prioritize dialogue, policy reforms, and leadership by example:

1. Dialogue and Inclusion: Tinubu should foster open dialogue with civil society, creating platforms for protesters to express their concerns and feel heard.
2. Policy Reforms: The removal of fuel subsidies and other economic policies have burdened ordinary Nigerians. Tinubu should consider revisiting these decisions and introducing measures to alleviate the economic strain on vulnerable populations.
3. Leadership by Example: Tinubu must lead with transparency and accountability, demonstrating that his administration is committed to serving the Nigerian people.

Conclusion

Senator Shehu Sani’s remarks to President Bola Tinubu are more than a critique; they are a call for action. Tinubu, once celebrated as a defender of justice, must now prove that he can govern with the same principles he once fought for. His legacy as the “father of protest” hangs in the balance, and the decisions he makes in the coming months will define his presidency and his place in Nigerian history.

“Emi Lokan”: The Soundtrack of Resistance

Adding a cultural dimension to this discourse is the song “Emi Lokan” by Eedris Abdulkareem. The title, which translates to “It’s My Turn” in Yoruba, reflects Tinubu’s campaign slogan but also serves as a critique of entitlement in leadership. The song encapsulates the frustration of Nigerians, who are demanding accountability and a return to leadership that prioritizes the people over personal gain.

Listen to “Emi Lokan” by Eedris Abdulkareem
YouTube Link to the Song

Lyrics Excerpt
“Emi lokan, mo ni mo lo kan
Se e ma ti gbo, won ni emi lokan
Awon l’omode ti dagba,
Won ni ki won ma fi wa sere mo,
O to ge, o to ge…”

These lyrics capture the essence of the protests: a demand for leadership that serves the people, not personal ambition.

References:

1. Sani, S. (2024). Remarks on Tinubu’s Presidency. Nigerian Tribune. Retrieved from Nigerian Tribune.
2. National Democratic Coalition (NADECO). (1998). Role of Bola Tinubu in Nigeria’s Pro-Democracy Movement. BBC News Africa. Available at BBC News.
3. The Fuel Subsidy Crisis in Nigeria. (2023). Al Jazeera. Accessed via Al Jazeera.

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