In a scathing critique, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Lagos State Labour Party flagbearer in the 2023 general elections, has denounced President Bola Tinubu’s recent speech to the nation as “extremely disappointing” and “woefully inadequate”.
Rhodes-Vivour’s harsh words come as Nigerians continue to express their discontent with the government’s handling of the country’s pressing issues.
Rhodes-Vivour lamented that President Tinubu’s speech failed to demonstrate empathy towards the plight of Nigerians, who have been vocal about their struggles.
He argued that the government had sufficient time to prepare a comprehensive response to the growing protests, yet chose to ignore the people’s concerns.
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Instead, Rhodes-Vivour claimed that the President’s speech was replete with propaganda, implying that the protests were politically motivated rather than a genuine expression of the people’s frustrations.
Furthermore, Rhodes-Vivour took issue with President Tinubu’s failure to provide a clear plan for reducing government expenditures or outlining a strategy for effective management of public funds.
He pointed to the example of Kenya, where President William Ruto took decisive action to address the nation’s urgent needs, and wondered why Nigeria’s leader could not do the same.
Rhodes-Vivour’s criticism is a stark reminder of the growing disconnect between the government and the people.
As Nigerians continue to demand action from their leaders, the President’s speech has only served to exacerbate the sense of disillusionment and discontent.