Falana Criticizes Tinubu’s Policies, Calls for Democratic Accountability

Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has accused the Tinubu administration of repeating the errors of previous governments by implementing policies backed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF). He warned that Nigerians must unite to demand the genuine benefits of democracy. In a recent interview, Falana condemned the government’s economic strategies, claiming they deceive citizens while primarily serving the interests of the ruling elite.

Falana criticized the current government for its economic management, stating, “At all times, it is a boom for the ruling class but for the people it is doom. Nigerians must mobilise this time around to demand the dividends of democracy.” He emphasized that improving the fortunes of political leaders should not come at the expense of the national economy.

Reflecting on Nigeria’s economic history, he pointed to the 1986 Structural Adjustment Programme (SAP) initiated under General Ibrahim Babangida. Falana noted that nearly forty years later, the country continues to follow a perilous path. “The government merely gives failed policies new names to deceive the people,” he said. He criticized the narrative that citizens should endure short-term hardships for an anticipated future prosperity, which, he argued, consistently benefits only the political class.

In his critique, Falana highlighted the government’s simultaneous actions of devaluing the naira, removing subsidies, and increasing the salaries and allowances of politicians. He described this combination as “provocative and reckless.” Furthermore, he raised concerns about the ongoing implementation of the expired 2024 budget while projects for 2025 are already in motion.

On the topic of social welfare, Falana pointed out that several laws, including the National Social Investment Programme Act, the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, and the National Health Insurance Authority Act, remain underfunded, despite significant increases in statutory allocations following the removal of subsidies. “The removal of subsidies has tripled statutory allocations. Federal, state, and local governments must reflect that increase in social services,” he stated.

Falana urged the government to take decisive actions to strengthen the naira, eradicate illegal dollar transactions in Nigeria, and explore the possibility of joining BRICS to reduce dependency on the US dollar.

He also cautioned against premature campaigning for the 2027 elections, calling on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enforce the Electoral Act. “You cannot devalue the currency, dollarise the economy, remove subsidies, and then raise politicians’ pay. That is provocative. Nigerians must rise and demand what is rightfully theirs,” he declared.

Falana’s statements resonate with many who feel that the government’s current policies fail to address the pressing needs of the populace. As the political landscape evolves, the call for accountability and genuine democratic dividends remains more relevant than ever.