Pastor Bakare Critiques Nigerian Leadership: A Call for Reform and Accountability
Pastor Tunde Bakare criticized Nigeria’s leadership during his Easter address, accusing President Tinubu of fostering damaging political practices. He called for a reformed approach to governance, reflecting on the dire economic situation and urging empathy and responsibility in political discourse. Bakare emphasized the need for leaders to respect constitutional governance and the fragility of Nigeria’s political climate.
On Easter Sunday, Pastor Tunde Bakare, founder of the Citadel Global Community Church, expressed a strong critique of Nigeria’s current leadership during his state-of-the-nation address in Lagos. He accused President Bola Tinubu of fostering a political landscape akin to “motor park brand of politics,” which has culminated in legislative irresponsibility and a decline in constitutional governance.
Furthermore, Pastor Bakare called for a transformation in leadership style, emphasizing Nigeria’s fragility amid current political practices. He urged President Tinubu to consider the perils associated with unrestricted power and to cease “playing God.” Earlier in his political career, Pastor Bakare served as the Vice-Presidential candidate in 2011 under the Congress for Progressive Change and later sought the presidential nomination from the All Progressives Congress, though he did not receive any votes at the primaries.
In his address, Pastor Bakare cited specific instances of political misconduct, particularly referencing allegations made by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio. He described the remarks made by Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi towards Oby Ezekwesili as “street-level vitriol,” condemning the lack of decorum within political discussions. The altercation during a Senate Ethics Committee hearing illustrated the deterioration of civility in political proceedings.
Pastor Bakare further emphasized the grave economic challenges facing Nigerians under President Tinubu’s administration, including soaring food inflation, substantial fuel price increases, and a significant cost-of-living crisis. He mentioned data revealing Nigeria’s position among countries with the highest misery indexes, reinforcing the urgent need for effective economic reforms.
He remarked on tragic incidents reflecting the extreme hardships experienced by the populace, alluding to horrifying accounts of desperation as parents struggled to secure food for their children. Despite acknowledging certain economic successes, Bakare insisted on the need for a reassessment of Nigeria’s economic trajectory to alleviate the suffering of its citizens. His longstanding critique of governmental failures and abuses of power highlight his dedication to advocating for accountable leadership.
Bakare’s criticisms encompass not only President Tinubu but also trace back to his previous discontent with Tinubu’s tenure as Lagos State Governor. He has expressed a refusal to recognize Tinubu as his president due to alleged electoral malpractices surrounding the 2023 elections. Pastor Bakare’s calls for reform and accountability underscore the urgent need for leadership willing to prioritize the well-being of the Nigerian people.
In his Easter address, Pastor Tunde Bakare articulated serious concerns regarding Nigeria’s leadership, emphasizing the detrimental effects of current political practices on governance and economic conditions. Through his critique of President Bola Tinubu and the broader political landscape, Bakare calls for crucial reforms aimed at restoring integrity and empathy within Nigeria’s governance. His remarks highlight a deep-rooted desire for change amidst a troubling political climate, urging leaders to abandon authoritarian tendencies and prioritize the nation’s welfare.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
