Dele Momodu, publisher of Ovation Magazine, has called on Bola Tinubu to uphold democratic principles and resist the temptations of authoritarianism.
In an open letter shared on his X handle, Momodu voiced concerns about the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians and the growing perception that Tinubu’s approach to governance may have shifted.
“Unfortunately, things have not been easy for Nigerians (except members of the privilegentsia) since you realized your lifelong ambition. And let me be frank Sir. You caused it all. You did not realize that a country is much more complicated than a state.
“I’m sad and embarrassed that a fighter for Democracy is now saying Nigerians will not be allowed to congregate and demonstrate on the streets, something you and I enjoyed during the military regimes, at home and abroad.,” he stated.
Momodu further emphasized that, although he opposes anarchy, he believes in addressing potential threats without compromising democratic rights.
“I will never support anarchy, after engaging in peace initiatives in Sierra Leone, Liberia and The Gambia. But I’m reasonably assured that any potential threat can be contained and nipped in the bud,” he said.
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Momodu told Tinubu to seek guidance from civil liberties advocates and to evaluate the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security agencies without resorting to authoritarian measures.
“Please sir, go back to your original friends in civil liberties and seek their assistance. Then, use this opportunity to test the strength, security architecture, and combat readiness of our security agencies.
“Ignore the advice of the hawks in your team. They have nothing to lose since they are mostly beneficiaries of what others died for,” he stated.
“They have nothing to lose since they are mostly beneficiaries of what others died for. Resist the temptations of full-blown dictatorship. You’re in my prayers as you bear this cross,” he concluded.
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