Dr. Ladan Salihu, the former Director-General of the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), has declared that there is nothing to celebrate on Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day anniversary. Salihu voiced his dissatisfaction with the country’s economic challenges, emphasizing a disconnect between the political class and the realities faced by the masses.
In an interview on Arise TV, Salihu expressed his frustration, stating, “I feel inwardly sad, I feel very angry. I am literally trying hard to contain my anger.” He criticized the political elite for their lack of understanding regarding the struggles of ordinary Nigerians, highlighting the disheartening reaction of a member of the House of Representatives to the current state of the nation.
He lamented, “I see a very worrying disconnect from someone who is in authority, who should know better the yearnings and aspirations of Nigerians. What I saw, I consider very disappointing because of the disconnect.”
Salihu noted that the occasion of independence is overshadowed by economic hardship, stating, “When you look at the present state of Nigeria today, what is there to celebrate? Are you happy with the level of poverty that is stinking and biting Nigerians?”
Emphasizing that protests are a fundamental right of citizens, Salihu pointed out that the recent protests had not led to meaningful changes. He urged the political class to listen to the demands of their constituents, as they are the ones who elected them into office.
“I am worried about the state of affairs of the country. People are out to protest because they want their voices heard again. The right of assembly is given by the constitution, as well as the right to free speech,” he stated. He stressed that with around 82% of Nigerians living in multidimensional poverty, it is inappropriate for leaders to celebrate the current state of affairs.
Salihu further critiqued the current administration, saying, “The government is failing. They have not lived up to the expectations of Nigerians, and we should be saying it loud because we put them there.” He called for more vocal criticism of the government’s performance, arguing that citizens must hold their leaders accountable.