Victor EzejaPresident Bola Tinubu has appealed to Nigerians to bear with his administration over the tough decision to remove subsidy on petrol, saying he feels the pains of the people, but it was done for the collective good.
President Tinubu made the appeal during his nationwide address to mark this year’s Democracy Day celebration.
The president said the removal of subsidy on petrol was done to save the country from the stranglehold of a few rich unpatriotic elements draining public resources through the scheme.
He reiterated his promise of massive investments in critical sectors such as infrastructure, healthcare, education, transportation, and stable power supply among others that will impact the lives of the citizens.
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He said: “In my inauguration address on May 29, I gave effect to the decision taken by my predecessor in office to remove fuel subsidy albatross and free up the collective use of much-needed resources which had hitherto been pocketed by a few rich.
“I admit, the decision will impose an extra burden on the masses of our people. I feel your pain. This is one decision we must bear to save our country from going under and take our resources away from the stranglehold of a few unpatriotic elements.
“Painfully I ask you my compatriots to sacrifice a little more for the survival of our country. The government I lead will repay you through massive investment in transportation, infrastructure, education, regular power supply, healthcare, and other public utilities that will improve the quality of lives.”
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Former President Muhammadu Buhari had in June 2018, declared June 12 to be the new Nigeria’s Democracy Day in honour of the winner of June 12, 1993, presidential election, the late Chief Moshood Kashimawo Olawale (MKO) Abiola and other heroes of democracy in the country.
Tinubu noted that the June 12 election crisis gave birth to the seed of years of struggle that led to the democracy in the country today
He said that democracy despite its shortcomings is the best in terms of the dignity of human freedom when compared to tyranny.
Tinubu also promised to fulfill his campaign promises to Nigerians, adding that he would continue to promote policies, that entrench the rule of law, while actions that truncate democracy will no longer be tolerated.
He noted that the recent harmonization of the retirement age for judicial officers is meant to strengthen the rule of law, which is a critical pillar of democracy, adding that “the reform has just started.”
He enjoined the people to rededicate themselves to strengthening democracy in the country and pledged to uphold equity, justice, and fairness in governance.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with six years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Masters degree in Mass Communication.
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