Here is a roundup of some Nigerian newspaper headlines with our advocacy calls.
1. Defection to SDP: Presidency, APC knock El-Rufai, dismiss threat to unseat Tinubu – Punch
Former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai has dramatically defected from the ruling APC to the opposition SDP, vowing to unseat President Bola Tinubu come 2027.
And just like that, the political circus rolls on, with El-Rufai now playing the role of the aggrieved ex-ally turned messiah.
Of course, the APC wasted no time labeling his ambition as ‘inordinate’ and ‘destined to fail’. But while the bigwigs are busy trading verbal punches and plotting strategies, the common man is still stuck on the front lines of survival, as they battle inflation, insecurity, and joblessness.
Our Take: Now, dear citizen, before you get caught up in this political game of musical chairs, ask yourself: who truly has your interest at heart?
The same people who played a major role in creating your problems are now rebranding as the solution. Next time you hear promises of change or ‘rescue missions’, check the track record.
Did they deliver when they had the power? Or are they just power-hungry, repositioning themselves to remain relevant?
Ahead of the next elections, do not let recycled politicians manipulate your struggles as campaign slogans. Demand clear, actionable plans to address issues that hit you directly.
2. Stop threats, ultimatums, inflammatory statements, Fubara, Amaewhule cautioned – Vanguard
Rivers State has been a place where political gladiators are locked in a wrestling match while the common man is left wondering whether to cheer or run for cover.
Former Governor Rufus Ada George, playing the role of the wise elder, has called for peace, urging warring factions to put down their verbal machetes and stop throwing ultimatums like confetti at a chaotic carnival.
Our Take: Now, what does this faceoff mean for the everyday Rivers citizen who just wants to put food on the table without getting caught in political crossfire? Let’s put things into perspective.
Rivers State, the oil-rich giant with an estimated population of over seven million, has seen more political brawls than economic breakthroughs. Unemployment hovers around 43.7 percent, and more than 50 percent of the youth are either underemployed or jobless. Yet, politicians are busy trading threats instead of addressing the lack of opportunities and infrastructural decay.
While the power tussle rages on, the people are left wondering: how does any of this put food on the table? Political ego clashes won’t build roads, create jobs, or reduce crime rates. Instead, they distract from the real issues
The people of Rivers must demand accountability. Instead of being spectators, they should insist that political leaders address pressing socio-economic challenges. Call them out on how these power struggles derail progress.
3. ‘ Kebbi: Lakurawa Kills 13 in Revenge Mission’ – Daily Trust
The circle of violence spins again. One leader falls, and in return, 13 innocent souls pay the price. The Lakurawa group, in a textbook display of twisted vengeance, has turned Birnin Dede into yet another mourning ground. But tell me, dear citizens, when did blood-for-blood become our national anthem?
Our Take: Are we to clap for security forces who eliminate threats without addressing the roots of insurgency? Or should we cheer for armed groups who believe justice is best served with fresh graves? No, we must demand better.
The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), General Christopher Musa, and the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, should step up efforts in implementing urgent, measurable actions to combat terrorism effectively.
2. ‘I removed fuel subsidy to protect unborn generation —Tinubu’ – Vanguard
President Bola Tinubu has boldly sacrificed the present for the glorious comfort of generations yet to be born. Of course, in the meantime, Nigerians must endure fuel prices that defy gravity, transportation costs that mock their monthly salary, and a cost of living so high that even the heavens are asking for rent.
Our Take: Mr President, we hear you loud and clear. Fuel subsidy had to go so that our unborn children can have a better future. But, sir, who will birth and raise these future Nigerians if today’s citizens can barely survive?
A better future is meaningless if the present is unbearable. The president should act now, or there won’t be anyone left to enjoy that ‘glorious future’ he is planning.
