National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Funmi Ojo
Renowned publisher and journalist Dele Momodu has called on President Bola Tinubu to resist the temptation of authoritarian rule and uphold democratic values.
In an open letter posted on social media, Momodu expressed concern over the challenges faced by ordinary Nigerians and the perceived shift in the President’s approach to governance.
Momodu, who acknowledged Tinubu’s past as a fighter for democracy, expressed disappointment that the President now seems to be restricting Nigerians’ rights to congregate and demonstrate.
He emphasised the need to manage potential threats without undermining democratic rights.
The publisher advised Tinubu to seek guidance from civil liberties advocates and evaluate the effectiveness of Nigeria’s security agencies without resorting to authoritarian measures.
He urged the President to ignore the advice of “hawks” in his team and instead seek assistance from his original friends in civil liberties.
Momodu’s letter comes as President Tinubu faces criticism over his handling of security issues and perceived attempts to stifle dissenting voices.
In his letter, Momodu reminded Tinubu of his long-standing commitment to democracy, highlighting his past efforts to combat military rule in Nigeria.
He urged the President to stay true to these principles by fostering an environment where citizens can freely express their opinions and engage in peaceful protests.
Momodu further noted that Nigeria’s democracy is still evolving and that it is crucial for the leadership to set a positive example by respecting the rule of law and fundamental human rights.
He cautioned that any move towards authoritarianism could undermine the progress made in the country’s democratic journey.
The publisher also stressed the importance of addressing the root causes of dissatisfaction among Nigerians, such as economic hardship and social inequality, rather than suppressing dissent.
He argued that a transparent and accountable government is better equipped to gain the trust and support of its citizens.
Momodu’s appeal to Tinubu reflects a broader concern among civil society groups and ordinary Nigerians about the direction of the current administration.
