Pastor Tunde Bakare Critiques President Tinubu’s Governance in Easter Address
Pastor Tunde Bakare criticized President Bola Tinubu’s leadership during his Easter broadcast, highlighting the detrimental effects of his political style and economic reforms. He called for a reevaluation of power dynamics and emphasized the need for empathy and responsibility to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. Bakare’s remarks underline a growing concern over the state of governance and economics in Nigeria.
Pastor Tunde Bakare, the founder of the Citadel Global Community Church, delivered a pointed critique of Nigeria’s leadership in his Easter Sunday broadcast in Lagos. He accused President Bola Tinubu of promoting a detrimental style of politics akin to a “motor park brand,” which has contributed to legislative disorder and the deterioration of constitutional governance.
Pastor Bakare emphasized the necessity for a fundamental shift in leadership style, noting that Nigeria’s fragile state cannot sustain the current political approach. He advised President Tinubu to reflect on the risks associated with unchecked power and to cease his tendencies to “play God.”
Having previously served as a Vice-Presidential candidate in 2011, Mr. Bakare unsuccessfully sought the presidency in 2022, receiving no votes at the primaries where President Tinubu won with a substantial margin.
Specifically, Bakare referenced the Senate’s handling of allegations by Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan against Senate President Godswill Akpabio, condemning the behavior of Senator Onyekachi Nwebonyi towards Oby Ezekwesili during a recent Senate Ethics Committee hearing, which regrettably devolved into personal attacks.
The pastor expressed deep concern over the current leadership, stating that instead of the humility and character required at this time, a troubling tyranny and blatant abuse of power have emerged. He noted that those in positions of authority appear bent on destabilizing Nigeria’s political institutions.
Additionally, Pastor Bakare illuminated Nigeria’s dire economic landscape, asserting that the economic reforms under President Tinubu have instigated severe hardships, including soaring food prices, fuel hikes exceeding 430%, and a generational cost of living crisis. He cited alarming statistics revealing that Nigeria now ranks among the highest on the misery index worldwide.
Bakare argued for strategic reforms prioritizing empathy, methodology, transparency, and accountability, while acknowledging some positive outcomes, like a $5 billion increase in reserves. He insisted on the urgent need to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians, recounting tragic instances of desperation.
Previously a vocal opponent of government misconduct, Mr. Bakare’s activism dates back to the Save Nigeria Group’s involvement in protests against previous administrations. However, he has faced criticism for his relative silence during the tenure of former President Buhari, owing to their relationship. His discord with President Tinubu reportedly stems from perceived electoral misconduct during the 2023 elections, which he claimed prevented him from acknowledging Tinubu as his president.
In summary, Pastor Tunde Bakare has articulated significant concerns regarding the leadership and economic management under President Bola Tinubu. He has called for immediate reform in both political conduct and economic strategy to address Nigeria’s fragile state. Bakare’s criticisms reflect a larger discontent with current governance and highlight the urgent need for character and humility in leadership, necessitating a shift towards responsible governance for the betterment of the nation.
Original Source: www.premiumtimesng.com
