EndBadGovernance: Onoh Claims Tinubu Is Actively Addressing Protesters Concerns, Responds To Peter Obi

#EndBadGovernance: Onoh Claims Tinubu Is Actively Addressing Protesters Concerns, Responds To Peter Obi

Josef Onoh, former spokesman for President Bola Tinubu in the Southeast, has responded to Peter Obi’s criticism of the President’s recent national address. Obi, the 2023 Labour Party presidential candidate, had criticized Tinubu’s address for failing to address key issues that sparked nationwide protests, alleging that it focused too much on past topics…….. CONTINUE READING

Onoh countered by asserting that Tinubu has already addressed the core demands of the protests, including food security and wage increases, and urged Obi to verify these claims. He noted that the protesters’ new demands involve scrapping the 1999 Constitution and replacing it with a new one created by the people. Onoh warned that such demands could lead to calls for an interim government or even military rule, stressing that Tinubu’s authority is constitutionally grounded.

Onoh referred to the Senate’s formation of a 45-member committee on February 14, 2024, to review and amend the Constitution, which includes representatives from all states and political parties. He encouraged protesters to channel their submissions through their Senators.

Onoh argued that President Tinubu lacks the constitutional authority to unilaterally make amendments or scrapping parts of the government structure. He highlighted that demands for a part-time legislature and other changes would require constitutional amendments, which can be pursued through the Senate committee.

Regarding wage demands, Onoh pointed out that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) had agreed on a new minimum wage of ₦70,000, with Tinubu committing to a review every three years. He also mentioned ongoing educational support through scholarships and funding by agencies like TETFUND and NDDC, emphasizing that the responsibility for free education lies with individual states.

On the release of Nnamdi Kanu and the demilitarization of the Southeast, Onoh cited ongoing legal proceedings and efforts by Southeast senators and governors. For compensation related to the #EndSARS protests, he noted ongoing legal actions and the complexities due to looting and property damage.

Onoh criticized the demand for the renationalization of public enterprises, arguing that such changes would require a lengthy legal process and are unlikely to be feasible without a military regime. He also addressed concerns about corruption in subsidy regimes and urged protesters to direct such issues to their state officials.

He highlighted that the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND) has started disbursing stipends to students and reiterated Tinubu’s commitment to educational support. Onoh mentioned ongoing efforts by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission to address corruption and emphasized that restructuring Nigeria involves constitutional amendments.

Onoh acknowledged that combating banditry and terrorism falls within presidential authority and pointed to Tinubu’s engagement with ECOWAS and regional security initiatives. He noted past government efforts on energy investments, such as the Electricity Act 2023, which allows states to generate power independently.

Onoh dismissed demands for the reconstitution of Nigeria’s electoral body as distractions and urged protesters to provide evidence for corruption claims. He also noted that changes such as diaspora voting require amendments to the Electoral Act, not presidential action.

Regarding the petrol pump price, Onoh argued that reverting to ₦100 per litre is economically impractical due to exploration, production, and refining costs. He emphasized ongoing efforts to improve Nigeria’s refineries and power sector.

Onoh urged protesters to engage in dialogue and stated that many of their demands have already been addressed by Tinubu. He also called on the President to listen to the people and continue working towards national progress, suggesting that any cabinet reshuffles should be proactive.

For the latest updates and juicy gossip, dive into the Bushradiogist platform by clicking this link: Bushradio. For advert placement only, shoot a WhatsApp message to 0807 580 6790.