Mr. Dumebi Kachikwu, the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress in the 2023 general elections, has expressed his disappointment with the state of Nigeria even after 63 years of independence.
In a goodwill message to mark the 63rd independence anniversary, Kachikwu called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently address issues such as corruption, poverty, and other challenges plaguing the country.
Kachikwu highlighted the prevailing gloom in the nation, with Nigerians lamenting their lack of independence from endemic poverty, corruption, ineffective leadership, inadequate basic amenities, and escalating insecurity. He referenced the words of Prof. Aluko, stating that the poor cannot sleep because they are hungry, while the rich cannot sleep because the poor are awake and hungry.
On a day that is meant to be a celebration of independence, Kachikwu questioned whether there was truly anything to be happy about in Nigeria. He emphasized the widespread disillusionment and the desperate measures that many Nigerians have resorted to in order to survive.
Kachikwu pointed out that most Nigerians were born into these unfavorable circumstances and have endured them throughout their lives. He expressed doubt that the current state of Nigeria reflects the Nigeria that previous generations envisioned and passed down to their children.
Overall, Kachikwu’s message conveyed his concern about the prevailing challenges in Nigeria and called on President Tinubu to address them urgently. He highlighted the disappointment and lack of hope among Nigerians, raising questions about the true meaning of independence in the country.
