In a critique of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s New Year speech, the Labour Party (LP) has expressed profound dismay at what it deems a display of sheer hypocrisy and deceit.
According to the party, the speech not only failed to address critical issues plaguing the nation but also underscored the All Progressives Congress’s (APC) guiding principle of insensitivity.
In a statement released by Obiora Ifoh, the National Publicity Secretary of LP, the party expressed deep concern over the absence of any words of comfort for the families affected by the Christmas Eve massacre in Plateau State, where over 200 people lost their lives to terrorist attacks.
The LP condemned what it perceives as the President’s indifference to the plight of the victims and their families.
The LP’s critique extended to various facets of the President’s address, particularly highlighting the glaring omissions that, according to the party, reveal the administration’s lack of empathy.
The statement pointed out the President’s failure to address issues such as insecurity, deteriorating infrastructure, the collapse of the manufacturing and productive sectors, inflation, and the alarming depreciation of the naira against the dollar.
Moreover, the LP accused President Tinubu of turning a blind eye to the alleged massive looting of the nation’s resources by his appointees and party leaders across various sectors.
The absence of any acknowledgment or commitment to combating corruption further fueled the party’s dissatisfaction.
A notable point of contention in the LP’s statement was the President’s assertion that every decision taken since assuming office has been in the best interest of the country.
The party labeled this claim as a “despicable form of deceit,” emphasizing the disconnect between the President’s rhetoric and the stark realities facing the nation.
The LP also criticized Tinubu’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy without a comprehensive plan to alleviate the ensuing economic hardships for Nigerians.
The party questioned the benefits of depleting the nation’s foreign reserves, especially concerning expenditures related to international events like the climate change summit in Dubai.
Concerns were raised about the damage inflicted on democratic institutions, including the judiciary and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), under the APC administration.
The LP urged the National Assembly to rise above party lines, emphasizing the need to uphold the spirit and letter of the Constitution to safeguard the nation’s democratic principles.
As the LP calls for prayers for the nation during this critical juncture, it simultaneously urges the National Assembly to play a pivotal role in ensuring the constitutional integrity of the country, signaling a demand for accountability and transparency that transcends partisan interests.
