Prominent Nigerians have raised the alarm over growing authoritarianism and worsening insecurity under President Bola Tinubu.
Pastor Tunde Bakare, former vice-presidential candidate, accused the administration of steering Nigeria toward tyranny, citing unchecked violence and public distrust in government institutions.
Bakare condemned recent massacres in Plateau, Benue, and Edo, warning that citizens now rely on local militias for protection. He proposed decentralised policing and zonal security councils as urgent reforms.
He also slammed the National Assembly as a “rubber stamp,” especially over its silence on Rivers State’s crisis and Senator Akpoti-Uduaghan’s suspension.
Supporting Bakare’s concerns, Bishop Matthew Kukah likened Nigeria to a “national morgue,” while ex-Defence Minister T.Y. Danjuma advocated civilian self-defense.
The Arewa Consultative Forum and Southern/Middle Belt Leaders’ Forum echoed fears of elite selfishness, hunger, and insecurity.
While the presidency admitted challenges, spokesperson Bayo Onanuga claimed the government is quietly intensifying security. With national frustration mounting, Easter messages from religious leaders called for systemic reforms, greater accountability, and urgent action to prevent Nigeria’s decline.
