Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has expressed his disappointment and frustration with the Nigerian government’s consistent lack of political will to address the suffering of its citizens. For over four decades, the government’s response to the country’s challenges has been to ask citizens to “have patience” and “endure,” without any tangible evidence of progress or improvement in their lives.
Falana, speaking on a Channels TV interview, lamented that the government’s usual mantra of “patience” has become a tired excuse for inaction, as the country continues to slide into poverty and hardship. He noted that the majority of Nigerians have lost faith in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises, and are fed up with the lack of progress.
The renowned lawyer pointed out that the recent celebration of Democracy Day was a stark reminder of the disconnect between the government and the people. While political office holders celebrated, the majority of Nigerians who are struggling to make ends meet had nothing to celebrate. He emphasized that the government must take concrete steps to empower its citizens and address the economic hardship facing the country.
Falana’s comments come on the heels of widespread protests by Nigerian youths in Lagos State and other parts of the country, who took to the streets to demand an end to the economic hardship and oppressive policies implemented by the government. The protesters, carrying placards and chanting slogans, expressed their frustration and anger at the government’s failure to address their plight.
As the country continues to grapple with poverty, inequality, and political disillusionment, Falana’s call for action and accountability from the government resonates with a population that has been patiently waiting for change for far too long.
