Chisom Oguadimma
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s speech addressing the ongoing protests in the country, stating it failed to provide concrete solutions to the severe hardships facing Nigerians. This was revealed in a press statement by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Hon. Debo Ologunagba, on Sunday, August 4, 2024.
The PDP described the speech as “insensitive towards Nigerians and the very precarious situation in the country.” The party expressed disappointment that, despite prompting from the PDP, President Tinubu’s address did not present any tangible measures to alleviate the suffering in the country.
The party further noted that the president’s speech failed to address key demands from citizens, such as reducing petroleum prices, stabilizing the Naira, and providing immediate food aid to starving Nigerians. Additionally, the PDP criticized the absence of an investigation into the killings of unarmed protesters by security operatives under the APC administration.
According to the PDP, the speech focused on self-praise and claims of achievements rather than acknowledging the people’s pain and presenting practical solutions. This approach, the party argued, only reinforced public perception that the APC administration is indifferent to the suffering of Nigerians, especially the youth.
The PDP called on the APC to admit its failures and be open to alternative views and suggestions. The party urged President Tinubu to take immediate action to reduce the cost of petroleum products, stabilize the Naira, and ensure the provision of essential food items. They also recommended cutting down on the size of governance and luxury expenditures to free up resources for addressing the urgent needs of Nigerians.
