Dele Momodu, the publisher of Ovation Magazine, has openly criticized President Bola Tinubu for the current hardships faced by Nigerians, which have led to a planned nationwide protest.
In an open letter posted on X (formerly Twitter), Momodu expressed concern over the difficulties experienced by ordinary citizens and suggested that the President’s governance approach has changed.
“Unfortunately, things have not been easy for Nigerians (except members of the privilegentsia) since you realized your lifelong ambition. And let me be frank Sir. You caused it all. You did not realize that a country is much more complicated than a State,” Momodu wrote.
Momodu highlighted his disappointment in Tinubu’s stance against public protests, recalling their own history of demonstrating against military regimes.
“I’m sad and embarrassed that a fighter for Democracy is now saying Nigerians will not be allowed to congregate and demonstrate on the streets, something you and I enjoyed during the military regimes, at home and abroad,” he stated.
While emphasizing his opposition to anarchy, Momodu advocated for managing potential threats without compromising democratic rights.
“I will never support anarchy, after engaging in peace initiatives in Sierra Leone, Liberia, and The Gambia. But I’m reasonably assured that any potential threat can be contained and nipped in the bud,” he noted.
He advised President Tinubu to seek guidance from civil liberties advocates and to reassess the capabilities of Nigeria’s security agencies without resorting to authoritarianism.
“Please Sir, go back to your original friends in civil liberties and seek their assistance. Then, use this opportunity to test the strength, security architecture, and combat readiness of our security agencies,” Momodu urged.
Momodu warned against heeding advice from “hawks” within Tinubu’s team, suggesting they have little to lose and benefit from others’ sacrifices.
“They have nothing to lose since they are mostly beneficiaries of what others died for. Resist the temptations of full-blown dictatorship. You’re in my prayers as you bear this cross,” he concluded.
The open letter reflects growing discontent and calls for the government to respect democratic principles amid economic and social challenges.