The Alaigbo Development Foundation (ADF), a prominent Igbo think tank, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his perceived insensitivity towards the economic suffering of Nigerians. According to the ADF, Tinubu’s administration has failed to show empathy for the hardships caused by its economic policies.
Professor Ukachukwu Awuzie, the National President of ADF and former Vice-Chancellor of Imo State University (IMSU), expressed deep concern over Tinubu’s actions during a press briefing in Enugu. Speaking after a meeting with ADF’s Central Working Committee, Board of Trustees, and founders, Awuzie condemned the President’s decision to spend millions of dollars on a new presidential jet, despite widespread hunger and suffering across the country. He questioned how Tinubu could justify such extravagant spending when many Nigerians are struggling to survive.
Awuzie also criticized the purchase of a new car for nearly one billion Naira, highlighting it as further evidence of the administration’s disregard for the plight of ordinary citizens. He remarked that the President’s response to protests against hunger—opting to buy a new jet—demonstrated a lack of empathy and understanding of the dire situation facing the nation.
In addition to the economic critique, Awuzie voiced disappointment with the South East Governors Forum for obstructing the formation of a regional security outfit to address the escalating insecurity in Igboland. He accused the governors, particularly under the leadership of the then-Governor of Ebonyi State, Dave Umahi, of prioritizing selfish political interests over the safety and security of their people.
Rather than supporting the establishment of a dedicated security force for the South East, the governors preferred the Federal Government’s community policing model, which the ADF believes is inadequate for addressing the region’s security challenges. The ADF lamented that this decision has left Igboland vulnerable to increasing threats and violence.
