Prof. Mondy Gold, a Chairman of National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) in the United States has expressed disappointment with President Tinubu’s broadcast on the nationwide protest and noted that it failed to address the concerns raised by Nigerians.
Gold, a professor of finance in a reaction to Sunday’s broadcast titled: An Urgent Appeal to Our Fellow Nigerians.
His words: “In the wake of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s latest address, a profound sense of dissonance pervades the nation. The president’s words, rather than heralding a transformative vision, seemed mired in a troubling complacency and a lack of foresight, appearing content with the status quo at the expense of our youth and future generations.
“The president’s speech failed to address the pressing issues that grip our nation, such as insecurity and unemployment. These critical issues, which are central to the well-being of our people, were notably absent, leaving a palpable void where leadership and reassurance should have been.
“The absence of a clear strategy to tackle these fundamental concerns has cast doubt on the administration’s priorities and direction. In these uncertain times, it is the fervent hope of the Nigerian Diaspora that our leadership will recognize the urgency of the moment and forge a path that prioritizes the welfare and prosperity of all Nigerians.
“The president’s omission is stark; he has not engaged with other deep-rooted issues that impede Nigeria’s progress. These include the lingering effects of colonialism, the intricacies of our social diversity, the pervasive corruption within our ranks, the tumultuous nature of our political landscape, the deficiencies in our workforce, the inefficiencies in management, the policies detrimental to peace and development, our low savings rates, and the scarcity of foreign investment,”.
Gold noted that confronted with these enduring challenges, the protesters should stand firm in their beliefs and let their collective voice rise as a clarion call, demanding transparency and better governance throughout Nigeria.
“Though past pledges have evaporated into thin air, casting shadows of scepticism, our determination must burn ever brighter. We must be tireless in our quest for significant reforms, championing measures that will fundamentally transform our nation. This entails prohibiting the use of personal generators by all public officials, both appointed and elected, slashing the remuneration of legislators, whose performance frequently disappoints, by a minimum of 60%, and promptly redefining the functions of our religious entities while streamlining federal ministries.
“These are not mere recommendations but pivotal steps toward the rejuvenation of our nation,” he said.
Gold opined, the immediate restructuring of Nigeria is not merely a wish but a prerequisite for lasting peace and prosperity.
According to Gold , Nigerians cannot afford to linger in stagnation, adding that the moment for decisive change is upon us.
“Finally, it is evident that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is not ready to embark on the transformative journey Nigeria urgently requires. Let us join forces in our demands, unwavering until our aspirations are realized and our future is assured.
“Stay resilient, stay vigilant, and let your voices be heard,” Gold urged the protesters..NA