The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to prioritize delivering on his administration's promises to Nigerians rather than allowing the All Progressives Congress (APC) and his allies to distract the nation with discussions about the 2027 general elections.

In a statement issued on Monday, HURIWA expressed deep concern over what it described as a deliberate attempt by the ruling APC to divert attention from the pressing economic and security challenges confronting Nigerians. The group warned that such distractions are insensitive to the plight of millions of citizens grappling with poverty, insecurity, and collapsing infrastructure.

HURIWA noted with dismay that recent comments by APC leaders, including Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, who declared there would be no vacancy in Aso Rock until 2031, reflect an alarming disconnect between the ruling party and the realities of the Nigerian people.

The rights group criticized the APC for prematurely campaigning for President Tinubu?s second term, even as the administration has yet to make meaningful progress in addressing the country?s numerous challenges. ?Nigerians are becoming absolutely poorer by the day,? HURIWA said. ?The value of the Naira has plummeted to record lows, thanks to the ill-considered floating of the currency. Public infrastructure, including roads, schools, and healthcare facilities, are in a state of collapse, and insecurity has worsened with kidnappers and terrorists operating freely, maiming and killing citizens. Yet, rather than focus on these critical issues, the ruling party is preoccupied with power retention beyond 2027.?

The group called on President Tinubu to redirect his attention to fulfilling his campaign promises, particularly in tackling poverty, reviving the economy, and ensuring the safety of lives and property. HURIWA lamented the rising poverty rate in the country, exacerbated by the administration?s policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the subsequent inflationary pressures. ?The cost of living has skyrocketed, with many Nigerians unable to afford basic necessities. The administration?s economic policies have left the middle and lower classes in dire straits,? the statement read. ?Instead of addressing these pressing issues, the APC and its allies are busy playing politics with the future of a nation that is already on its knees.?

The rights organization also highlighted the state of disrepair in the country?s public infrastructure, warning that the collapse of roads, schools, and healthcare facilities is a ticking time bomb. ?Our public schools are in shambles, with children learning under deplorable conditions. Hospitals lack basic equipment and medication, leaving citizens to die from preventable diseases. The country?s road network has become a death trap. It is shocking that in the face of these glaring failures, the APC is focused on retaining power rather than fixing the nation,? HURIWA stated.

On the issue of security, HURIWA decried the increasing activities of kidnappers, terrorists, and other criminal elements, which have left many communities across the country in perpetual fear. ?From Zamfara to Benue, and from the South-East to the North-East, Nigerians are living under siege. Criminals roam freely, attacking, maiming, and killing innocent citizens without consequences. This level of insecurity is unacceptable, and it is a clear indication that the government needs to do more to protect its people,? the group said.

HURIWA warned President Tinubu and his allies to desist from distracting Nigerians with talks of the 2027 elections, stressing that no mortal has control over the future. ?2027 is in the hands of God. No one knows who will live or die before that time. It is therefore not only presumptuous but also insensitive for anyone to talk about 2027 when the present is characterized by hardship, suffering, and hopelessness for millions of Nigerians,? the group cautioned.

The association called on the APC leadership to focus on rebuilding trust with the electorate by demonstrating competence and empathy in governance. HURIWA reiterated its commitment to holding the government accountable for its actions and policies, emphasizing that Nigerians deserve a government that prioritizes their welfare over political ambition. ?We urge President Tinubu to rise above party politics and demonstrate true leadership by addressing the issues that matter most to Nigerians. The APC must realize that its legitimacy lies not in political rhetoric but in its ability to deliver tangible dividends of democracy to the people,? the group concluded.

As the administration marks its initial months in office, HURIWA called on civil society, the media, and other stakeholders to remain vigilant and ensure that the government is held accountable for its promises. The group emphasized that the focus must remain on governance, not politicking, if Nigeria is to overcome its current challenges and move towards a brighter future.

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