The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has strongly criticized the growing trend of naming public institutions, roads, and other federal projects after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and members of his family. The group described this practice as an embarrassing display of sycophancy and a shameful promotion of a personality cult, unbefitting of a democratic society.

HURIWA expressed its displeasure following the recent commissioning of a newly built military barracks in Abuja, named ?Bola Ahmed Tinubu Barracks.? The barracks, located in the Asokoro area of the Federal Capital Territory, was built to address accommodation shortages for Army personnel. It includes quarters for various ranks and was commissioned by the President himself.

?This is an act of shameless hypocrisy and sycophancy,? HURIWA stated. ?Naming military barracks after a sitting president, especially one who has driven the country deeper into economic hardship, mass hunger, unemployment, insecurity, and instability, is an insult to Nigerians. President Tinubu is not a national hero deserving of such honours. Instead of engaging in self-serving acts like this, the President should focus on providing good governance and addressing the numerous challenges facing the nation.?

HURIWA noted that the practice of naming public institutions after Tinubu has become increasingly frequent and worrisome. The association cited multiple instances, including the recently approved Federal Polytechnic in Gwarinpa, Abuja, named the ?Bola Ahmed Tinubu Polytechnic.? The decision to name the institution after the President was approved by the Federal Ministry of Education and has already sparked criticism.

?In May 2024, the President inaugurated the National Assembly Library and Resource Centre, which was shamelessly named after him. Similarly, the Southern Parkway in the FCT was named after Tinubu by the Minister of the FCT, Nyesom Wike, who claimed it was in line with the President?s ?Renewed Hope Agenda.? This is not governance but an unhealthy promotion of self-interest and sycophancy,? HURIWA said.

The group also highlighted that the Nigerian Immigration Service named its Command and Control Centre the ?Bola Ahmed Tinubu Technology Innovation Complex? in December 2024, further fueling concerns about the growing culture of personality worship in Nigeria.

?Perhaps the most insulting example is Sokoto State Governor Ahmad Aliyu naming a road in Sokoto after Seyi Tinubu, the President?s son, who holds no official position in government and has contributed nothing of national significance to deserve such an honour. This is a clear case of sycophancy taken to ridiculous heights,? HURIWA said.

HURIWA argued that this trend is not only self-serving but also a desperate attempt to rewrite President Tinubu?s legacy at a time when Nigerians are grappling with worsening living conditions.

?In less than two years of his presidency, Tinubu?s administration has overseen spiralling inflation, record unemployment, heightened insecurity, and a failing healthcare system. The law enforcement authorities, particularly the Nigeria Police, reportedly remain incompetent, corrupt, and institutionally unprepared to address the surge in crimes such as kidnapping and terrorism. Yet, instead of addressing these issues, the President is preoccupied with self-glorification,? HURIWA stated.

The group also accused the administration of fostering inequality and favouritism in its appointments, with strategic positions being disproportionately filled by individuals from Tinubu?s ethnic group and a few from the Hausa/Fulani region.

?This pattern of governance shows a lack of regard for the principles of equity, fairness, and inclusivity. President Tinubu must stop this selfish and divisive governance style and work to build a country that offers equal opportunities to all Nigerians, regardless of ethnicity or religion,? HURIWA added.

HURIWA called for an immediate reversal of the naming of public institutions, roads, and facilities after Tinubu and his family members, emphasizing that public projects are funded by taxpayers and should not be used for personal glorification.

?This abuse of norms is rooted in a sycophantic culture that has grown in recent times. Naming federal institutions after a sitting president is an affront to democratic values and governance. The President must put a stop to this, as it signals a culture that is highly unacceptable in any functional democracy,? the group said.

HURIWA urged Nigerians to hold their leaders accountable and reject any attempts to normalize this culture of sycophancy.

?This naming spree is not governance but a mockery of public service. President Tinubu must realize that history will not judge him kindly if he continues to prioritize self-aggrandizement over addressing the needs of the Nigerian people. We demand an immediate end to this shameless practice and call on the administration to focus on the critical issues facing the nation,? HURIWA concluded.

The association reiterated its commitment to advocating for transparency, accountability, and good governance in Nigeria, urging citizens to speak out against acts that undermine democratic principles and public trust.

Update news