Taiwo Popoola
The Coalition of United Political Parties, CUPP, has doubted President Bola Tinubu’s consciousness to the realities on ground in the country.
The political group noted that the President’s rhetoric often emphasized prudence and sacrifice, while his actions told a different story.
CUPP, in a statement signed by Chief Peter Ameh, its National Secretary, pointed to what he called the President’s extravagant convoy during a visit to Lagos.
“This incident highlighted a concerning trend: Tinubu’s defenders refuse to acknowledge any wrongdoing, no matter how egregious,” it added.
“The convoy controversy came after Tinubu had spoken about the need for belt-tightening. If his supporters had challenged the optics of a 200-plus vehicle convoy, perhaps he would not have included SUVs for the First Lady in his inaugural budget.
“This move seemed designed to legitimize the office and signaled how he views federal resources. It’s worth noting that if the First Lady required an SUV, various government agencies would have readily provided one.
“Tinubu’s subsequent purchase of a private jet further underscores his tone-deafness regarding optics and his unwillingness to consider the public perception is alarming. This disconnect between words and actions erodes trust and undermines his leadership.
“President Bola Ahmed Tinubu seems to be out of touch with the harsh realities faced by at least 80% of the population he leads. His constant calls for ‘reforms’ and ‘hard decisions’ ring hollow when he fails to demonstrate a willingness to make sacrifices himself. Leadership by example is crucial, especially when asking citizens to bear the brunt of difficult choices.
“It’s time for the President to connect with the everyday struggles of his people and show that he’s committed to sharing the burden of reform.
“President Tinubu’s administration has been marked by a consistent refrain: the need for ‘reforms’ and ‘hard decisions’. However, this rhetoric rings hollow when juxtaposed with the President’s own detachment from the realities faced by the majority of the population.
“It appears that Tinubu is woefully out of touch with the everyday struggles of his citizens, a fact that undermines his leadership and the legitimacy of his reforms.
“When a leader asks his people to make sacrifices, he must be willing to demonstrate a similar commitment. Yet, Tinubu’s actions suggest that he is unwilling to share the burden of reform. This disconnect between the President’s words and actions erodes trust and fuels disillusionment among the populace.
“The vast majority of Nigerians face significant challenges in their daily lives, from economic hardship to insecurity and infrastructure deficits. They expect their leader to understand these struggles and work tirelessly to address them. Instead, Tinubu’s detachment suggests that he is more concerned with implementing his vision than with genuinely improving the lives of his citizens.
“Effective leadership requires empathy, compassion, and a willingness to listen. Tinubu’s failure to demonstrate these qualities raises questions about his ability to lead Nigeria towards a brighter future. As the country navigates its complex challenges, it needs a President who is in touch with reality, not one who is shielded from it.
“Ultimately, Tinubu must recognize the need to connect with his people and show that he is committed to sharing the burden of reform. Only then can he hope to build the trust and support necessary to drive meaningful change in Nigeria,” he stated
