As Nigeria attains 64 after independence in 1960, the federal government braces for yet another independence day celebration amid growing concerns of inflation, high spate of insecurity, unemployment, scarcity and hike in Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), resulting in a sharp decline of the economy.
A cross section of Nigerians blame this largely on leadership ineptitude, highlighting the poor policy formulation and non implementation of policies by successive governments over the past years, expressing deep concerns for the Nigerian youths who have constantly basked under the illusion of taking leadership positions in a country whose leaders care less of the younger generation.
The independence anniversary will as usual, be held to mark significant milestones in the history of the nation, underscoring salient achievements, struggles and hopes for a better Nigeria.
The Abuja City Journal in exploring the reactions and expectations from celebration of the country’s anniversary, many decried economic woes exacerbated by subsidy removal and the attendant spike and scarcity of PMS.
Judith expressed a deep sense of worry and frustration over the surge in prices of food items occasioned by the hike of premium motor spirit. “I do not see any reason to celebrate. Is the government celebrating achievements or woes?” She asked.
“A government that budgets money to celebrate anniversaries but cannot do same in resuscitating moribund refineries to allay the sufferings of the masses does not have their interests at heart,” said Umar.
On his part, Richard said a hungry man is an angry man. So the government should be reminded that one day the hungry citizens will take up arms and upturn the sign posts of hunger and oppression.
This is a stark reminder for the Nigerian government that the suffering masses have being relegated for too long and thus the urgent need for leaders to pay attention to the plight of the people.
