In a letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, popular comedian Seyi Law has urged the Nigerian leader to confront the pressing issues of high living costs and widespread hunger currently plaguing the nation.
Seyi Law, a vocal supporter of President Tinubu, shared his concerns and recommendations in the letter, which was published on his social media platform on February 19, 2023.
The comedian drew attention to the historical significance of mass protests led by Tinubu’s party in 2012 against the removal of petroleum subsidies during the administration of former President Goodluck Jonathan.
Seyi Law emphasized that the aftermath of those protests significantly contributed to the electoral defeat of Jonathan’s government in 2015.
He cautioned that history might repeat itself if the ongoing economic challenges, particularly the escalating cost of living and widespread hunger, persist.
Addressing President Tinubu, Seyi Law expressed his hope that the leader is attuned to the complexity of governance in Nigeria and urged him to grasp the current pulse of the nation.
The comedian acknowledged his role as an ardent supporter but emphasized his willingness to criticize when necessary.
Seyi Law remarked, “Sir, may I cast your mind back to 2012 when your party was able to convince Nigerians who had just had a beautiful yuletide celebration to take over the street in protest of the removal of subsidy on fuel.
“It was such a turning point for Jonathan’s administration and ushered in President Muhammadu Buhari.”
He went on to highlight the potential consequences if the ongoing economic challenges are not effectively addressed, warning that failure to tackle the issues of hunger, insecurity, and the inability to afford basic amenities could lead to mass protests reminiscent of those in 2012.
The comedian emphasized that good intentions are meaningless without proper implementations and pointed out areas where he expected quick fixes to mitigate the impact of the fuel subsidy removal.
Seyi Law also used the analogy of Moses and the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to illustrate the challenges faced by Nigerians, questioning the absence of the “manna” promised during the elections.
While expressing his patience during the initial years of President Buhari’s administration, Seyi Law stressed the urgency for effective governance, especially considering the escalating challenges faced by Nigerians.
He called for an appraisal of everyone in the President’s cabinet at the one-year mark, suggesting that those found wanting should be replaced.
The comedian urged President Tinubu to address key issues, including the PCNG buses initiative, soft measures on food availability and affordability, and the electricity situation.
He concluded the letter by promising to continue asking tough questions and supporting the President’s efforts for the greater good of the nation.
