Human rights advocate and lawyer Deji Adeyanju has expressed grave concerns about Nigeria’s current economic and political climate, asserting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would be unable to solve the country’s problems even if given 300 years in office.
In a recent interview, Adeyanju harshly criticized the administration for policies he claims disproportionately affect the poor while favoring the wealthy.
He described Nigeria as a nation where the rich enjoy significant privileges, such as tax breaks and luxurious lifestyles, while the poor bear heavy burdens like inflated fuel prices and high taxes.
“The average Nigerian is not benefiting from this system,” he said. “This nation is anti-poor. By and large, it’s an anti-poor people’s nation.”
Adeyanju also highlighted contradictions in government actions, particularly regarding security and justice.
He condemned the prosecution of minors for protesting against hunger and insecurity, labeling the treatment of these young protesters as cruel and hypocritical.
“The government detained minors for 93 days without food, accusing them of treason, while they simultaneously organize ceremonies to reintegrate Boko Haram members into society,” Adeyanju remarked.
He characterized Nigeria as a “concentration camp” for its citizens, suggesting that a visa-free policy from countries like the United States would expose the dissatisfaction of the populace.
Adeyanju’s remarks come amid widespread discontent over Nigeria’s economic reforms, including the removal of fuel subsidies, which have significantly impacted the cost of living for ordinary Nigerians.