May 28, (THEWILL) – Like “play, play” and “I no gree, I no gree”, President-elect, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, in less than twenty-four hours from now, would be inaugurated as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Congratulations to him because it’s not easy to win this exalted position in the most populous country in Africa.
The 2023 presidential election that had come and gone shall remain an unforgettable exercise and evergreen in the minds of some Nigerians, whose mixed reactions could be linked to their political parties’ inclinations.
Tinubu contested under the APC. He was optimistic about clinching the ruling party’s presidential ticket and fortunately, it worked out well for him. Other strong contenders in the race – Peter Obi of the Labour Party and Atiku Abubakar, the PDP flagbearer – wrestled to grab power from the outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari.
Even during the Presidential Election Tribunal hearing, the anticipations of various party faithful were hinged on the optimism that their standard bearers would be favoured by the court of competent jurisdiction. The fact remains, Judges have consolidated hearings of the PDP and LP candidates.
Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s victory was greeted by mixed reactions from Nigerians. Few blasted the incoming President due to his age, others roared that the Presidency should have been ceded to the Southeast, while some opined that the All Progressives Congress, APC, should have brought out a more younger person to fly its flag. But, in all these suggestions and diverse views, Tinubu is now in charge!
New administration comes with high expectations of the citizens. Also, the President-elect and other elected leaders are burdened with higher responsibilities of a better delivery of the gains of democracy, which is only what the people need from their leaders.
It is on record that Nigerians suffered under the present administration of the outgoing President Muhammadu Buhari. Although, Imo State, through Governor Hope Uzodimma, benefited so much from him. For instance, the upgrading of the Federal Medical Centre to Federal University of Technology Teaching Hospital (FUTH), Alvan Ikoku College of Education to Alvan Ikoku University of Education, Owerri, plan to dredge Orashi River/Oguta Lake among others. These are commendable.
Periscoping the incoming government of the President-elect, anticipations would be so high because of the hard times Nigerians had undergone in the past Eight (8) years. They might heave a sigh of relief that they are no longer moving from frying pan to fire. It is hoped that fresh air will be breathed under the Tinubu-led government.
The incoming President has every cause to appease Nigerians with positively-impacting projects that will drastically ameliorate their sufferings in all ramifications. Indeed, Citizens of this country are living in abject lack. There are families that can not provide a three square meal for themselves daily.
Many that are down with sundry health issues have died as a result of lack of money to visit hospitals. But, thank God for good-spirited individuals that help the needy. Hardship has deepened in our economy and prices of goods and services are hiked. Sometimes, only the upper and middle classes can afford it.
President Muhammadu Buhari had come, done his best and is about to leave office any moment from now. Insecurity was a big challenge to his government but notwithstanding, the leader should have concentrated on “Power”.
Therefore, many Nigerians would expect him to prioritise economic reforms and development initiatives. This could include policies to attract foreign investments, stimulate job creation, address infrastructure deficiencies, and diversify the economy beyond oil dependency.
Nigerians would expect their President to address the country’s security challenges effectively. Tinubu would likely be expected to develop strategies to combat insurgency, banditry, kidnapping, and other forms of criminality.
Nigeria is a diverse country with various ethnic and religious groups. People would anticipate Tinubu to prioritise unity and inclusivity, fostering a sense of national cohesion and ensuring that all Nigerians feel represented and included in the country’s affairs.
Let him promote good governance, respect for the rule of law, upholding democratic principles, strengthening institutions, and ensuring justice and fairness for all citizens.
Addressing poverty is key, improving social welfare programs, and reducing income inequality are crucial expectations as well for youth and women.
It is our belief that the incoming Government will be better than the immediate past administration.
