Nigeria At 64: CDHR Urges FG To Address Challenges, Concerns Of Nigerians

The Committee for the Defence of Human Rights (CDHR) has urged the Federal Government to address various challenges such as poverty, illiteracy, insecurity and inequality facing the country.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos to mark Nigeria’s 64th Independence Celebration, the National President of CDHR, Debo Adeniran, Nigerians are neither happy nor free after 64 years of political independence from Colonial Britain.

He said: “The Nigerian masses are poor and hungry. Since coming to power, the Tinubu administration has imposed unprecedented hardship on millions of Nigerians and pushed them into multi-dimensional poverty and monumental misery.

“Many working families are at the point of starvation. Several people have lost their jobs and lives. The middle class has been destroyed.

“The rate of suicide is increasing. Despite this, President Tinubu continues to drive forward these criminal anti-human policies as shown by the about 300% increase in petrol price in September compared to the situation on May 29, 2023.”

According to Adeniran, the Federal Government should release all #EndSARS and #EndBadGovernance protesters, journalists, whistleblowers and other victims of state repression unconditionally.

He said the government must reduce the cost of governance, place all political office holders on the minimum wage and scrap security vote and constituency allowances.

“Provide free and compulsory primary and secondary education for all Nigerian children. Reduce tertiary education school fees. Give Nigerian students grants and not loans.

“Immediate prosecution and jailing of all corrupt politicians, judges, police, public servants and state officials. Massive investment in public works, social infrastructure and industrialization to create decent jobs for all.

“Genuine electoral reform to allow for independent candidature, diaspora voting and a truly independent electoral body.

“We must say no to IMF neo-liberal policies. Reverse hike in fuel price and electricity tariff back to pre-May 29, 2023 level. Make government-owned refineries work to guarantee affordable petroleum products.

“Reduce food prices and end hunger. Support farmers (with security, funds and farm inputs) to ensure sustainable food production.

“End insecurity, banditry, terrorism and violent crimes. Prosecute culprits and their sponsors. For a robust security architecture and adequate support for soldiers at the front and their families,” he said.