Justice Osai Ahiakwo, a lawyer and social commentator, has expressed his disapproval of President Bola Tinubu’s recent condemnation of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for their nationwide protest against the high cost of living in the country.

In a statement released in Calabar, the lawyer and activist argued that there was no moral or legal justification for the President to disparage the organised labor union’s call for the government to address the plight of citizens.

Ahiakwo also raised concerns about Tinubu’s trip to Qatar accompanied by a large number of aides, criticising the President for being oblivious to the hardships faced by the citizens.

“If the current government genuinely cares about the people and understands the excruciating pain they are going through, the President should not have traveled to Qatar with such a large delegation at the expense of public funds during these economic challenges.”

Addressing Tinubu’s criticism of the NLC, Ahiakwo pointed out that it was through similar means that the President himself gained national political relevance when he directed similar criticisms towards former President Goodluck Jonathan.

The lawyer stated, “Receiving such a response, which lacks presidential demeanor, is mind-blowing. It is not enough to absolve the government from the current hyperinflation that is negatively impacting the everyday lives of Nigerians.”

Ahiakwo emphasized that every citizen and legally recognised pressure group, such as the Nigeria Labour Congress, has the right to peaceful protest, assembly, and expressing views in the public interest.

He called on the President to focus on addressing the root causes of hardship and seek sustainable solutions through well-thought-out economic policies, dialogue, constructive engagement, and collaboration among all stakeholders. Such efforts should aim to benefit all Nigerians.

The lawyer emphasized that the citizens should not be coerced into believing that issues of hunger and starvation are politically motivated, stressing that the lives of Nigerians should not be taken lightly.

He stated that pressure groups and opposition parties have a role to play in holding the ruling party accountable, advancing democratic principles, and upholding core values.