I urge our leaders to take immediate action to ease the public’s suffering. Implement job creation programs, social welfare initiatives like the N-Power program under President Buhari, and make life easier for the citizens. The youth are protesting for a reason; address these issues to calm the unrest.
Nigeria is currently experiencing nationwide protests, popularly known as the “hunger protest.” Citizens are taking to the streets to express their frustration over bad governance and the severe financial crisis plaguing the country. Massive inflation has left many unable to afford basic necessities such as food, medication, and education. Tragically, some people have died from hunger, unable to feed themselves and their families.
While many blame the president for these hardships, the real culprits are often overlooked: state governors they contribute 80-90% to the current situation. The removal of the fuel subsidy, which many citizens are urging the president to reinstate, was expected to stabilize the economy. However, since the subsidy was removed, each state has seen a significant increase in their monthly revenue from the federal government (FAAC).
Yet, the question remains: Have you seen any positive changes in your state government due to the subsidy removal? Have these leaders done anything extraordinary to improve the lives of their people? In Bauchi State, where I reside, there have been no new appointments, no salary increases , no welfare programs, and salaries are often delayed almost every month. When it comes to minimum wage, many governors claim they cannot pay. So, what are they doing with the increased revenue from the subsidy removal?
Before the fuel subsidy was removed, the FAAC monthly revenue distribution was considerably lower. For example, in April 2023, the FAAC allocation was N655.9 billion. After the subsidy was removed, FAAC revenue surged, totaling N9.9 trillion in the latter half of 2023. In June 2023, the allocation jumped to N1.9 trillion, more than double the amount from May 2023.
Here are some examples of state allocations before and after the subsidy removal:
– NASARAWA: Average monthly allocation rose by 185.3%, from N4.34 billion to N12.39 billion.
– ENUGU: Allocation increased by 94.3%, from N3.47 billion to N6.72 billion.
– ANAMBRA: Saw a 74.1% rise, from N4.34 billion to N7.56 billion.
– BAUCHI STATE: Average monthly FAAC allocation increased by 51.5%, from N4.8 billion to around N7.3 billion.
Despite the increased allocations, there has no any improvement in the financial conditions of the citizens. National lawmakers are not taking any significant actions to reduce the public’s anger. Is this the kind of representation we voted for?
Every citizen has the constitutional right to demand better from their representatives. If your senator or local leader is not serving you well, call for change and replace them with someone who will.
I urge our leaders to take immediate action to ease the public’s suffering. Implement job creation programs, social welfare initiatives like the N-Power program under President Buhari, and make life easier for the citizens. The youth are protesting for a reason; address these issues to calm the unrest.
Yasir Shehu Adam (Danliman), a young journalist and writer from Bauchi. You can reach me at 08069606658 or [email protected].