By Hussaini Ibrahim Sulaiman
The Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED) has released a damning State of the Nation address, painting a bleak picture of Nigeria in 2024.
The report highlights a surge in economic hardship, a worsening security situation, and a decline in democratic institutions.
The report criticizes the government’s handling of the economy, particularly the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the Naira, which have led to soaring inflation and increased poverty.
CHRICED warns that the government’s response to the economic crisis, including the proposed tax reforms and the 2025 budget, fails to adequately address the needs of the most vulnerable citizens.
The report also expresses deep concern over the deteriorating security situation across the country, with persistent insecurity in the North East, banditry in the North West, and separatist activities in the South East.
CHRICED criticizes the government’s security spending as ineffective and calls for a more comprehensive approach that addresses the root causes of insecurity.
Furthermore, the report raises alarm over the erosion of democratic space, including the suppression of dissent, the shrinking civic space, and the increasing influence of the ruling party.
The report highlights the recent Edo and Ondo state elections as examples of electoral malpractice and expresses concern over the growing trend of defections from opposition parties to the ruling party.
CHRICED calls on the government to prioritize the welfare of the people, address the economic crisis effectively, improve security, and protect democratic institutions.
The organization also urges civil society organizations to unite and hold the government accountable.