From Abba Dukawa, Abuja
A prominent political activist Usman Bugaje has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s leadership style, alleging that sycophants surround him, hiding the true condition of ordinary Nigerians.
During an interview on Channels Television, Bugaje stated, “I believe the president is surrounded by sycophants who don’t allow him to see reality or tell him the truth. If he knew what Nigerians face, he’d be ashamed.”
Bugaje lamented that Nigerians are beyond flowery speeches and crave concrete actions. “We’re concerned about actual steps – policies and governance structures that transform lives,” he said.
The panel discussion touched on rising prices and living costs. Bugaje expressed concern over Nigeria’s democracy’s failure to improve people’s lives and welfare. “Democracy is supposed to serve the people, but are they being served?” he asked.
He highlighted severe hardships, citing kidnappings, unemployment, and struggles of small business owners. “What kind of democracy is this?” he questioned.
Bugaje argued that any government failing to ensure citizens’ welfare and security loses its moral right to be called democratic. “If democracy can’t provide livelihood, it loses legitimacy,” he said.
Despite criticism, Bugaje affirmed his belief in democracy, emphasizing the need for courageous leaders who stand by their convictions.
