By Amb. (Dr.) Ibrahim Tajudeen Shola
In recent weeks, calls for protests against the administration of President Bola Tinubu have surged across Nigeria. While dissent and public demonstrations are integral to a healthy democracy, the current wave of calls for protests appears to be premature and counterproductive given the administration’s significant efforts to address our nation’s economic woes.
President Tinubu’s administration has undertaken a series of ambitious economic reforms designed to tackle Nigeria’s long-standing challenges, including rampant unemployment and economic instability.
These initiatives, though met with some immediate hurdles, aim to stabilize our economy and create sustainable job opportunities for millions of Nigerians.
The scope of these reforms ranging from regulatory changes to investment in infrastructure requires time to manifest tangible results.
Yet, rather than supporting these crucial reforms, recent calls for protests risk undermining the very foundation upon which this economic recovery is being built.
Why Nigeria Should Avoid Emulating Kenya’s 2024 Protests Over Tax Hikes
In 2024, Kenya witnessed a dramatic escalation of protests in response to the Finance Bill, which proposed significant tax increases.
The demonstrations, marked by thousands storming the Kenyan Parliament and parts of the building being set on fire, underscore a critical point: while protests can be a powerful form of dissent, copying this approach in Nigeria could lead to adverse consequences and fail to address our unique challenges effectively.
The protests in Kenya, sparked by the Finance Bill 2024, highlighted significant public unrest over proposed tax increases.
On June 25, 2024, thousands of protesters stormed the Kenyan Parliament Building in Nairobi, driven by outrage over the bill’s proposed tax hikes.
The situation escalated with some protesters setting parts of the building on fire, leading to considerable property damage and further unrest.
The hashtag #RejectFinanceBill2024 became a rallying cry for decentralized mass protests against the tax increases, reflecting widespread discontent.
While the intensity of these protests captured global attention, they also illustrate several risks and challenges that Nigeria should carefully consider before adopting similar tactics.
Why Nigeria Should Not Emulate Kenya’s Approach
In Kenya, the protests led to significant disruptions, including damage to infrastructure and economic activities. Nigeria, already grappling with economic challenges, could face severe consequences if protests lead to similar disruptions, exacerbating the existing economic strain.
Protests that involve storming government buildings and setting them on fire can heighten political tensions and lead to violent confrontations. Nigeria’s diverse and complex socio-political landscape may not withstand such escalations without risking broader instability.
In Kenya, the unrest disrupted essential services and hindered daily life for many citizens. Nigeria’s public services are already under pressure, and similar protests could further strain services such as healthcare, education, and transportation, affecting the most vulnerable segments of society.
Alternative Avenues for Change
Nigeria has avenues for constructive engagement that could lead to more effective solutions. Engaging in dialogue with policymakers, participating in public consultations, and using democratic processes to address grievances are more productive ways to influence policy without causing widespread disruption.
The Nigerian government is implementing various reforms, including student loan programs, agricultural investments, and economic policies aimed at improving the economy. Supporting these reforms and offering constructive feedback can drive positive change more effectively than disruptive protests.
Focus on Local Governance
Nigeria’s state governments play a crucial role in addressing local issues. By focusing on holding state governments accountable and advocating for better services at the local level, citizens can effect meaningful change without resorting to national-scale protests. The recent judgement obtained by the Federal government regarding local government autonomy is a pointer to how this is being pursued by the Tinubu administration.
Long-Term Stability Over Short-Term Gains
Protests often yield immediate visibility but may not lead to long-term solutions. Nigeria’s path to economic recovery and stability requires a strategic approach that includes supporting ongoing reforms, fostering dialogue, and encouraging investment in infrastructure and human capital.
While the recent protests in Kenya highlight the potential power of public dissent, copying this approach in Nigeria could have unintended and detrimental consequences. Rather than following a disruptive path, Nigerians should focus on constructive engagement, support for ongoing reforms, and holding local governments accountable. By working collaboratively within the framework of democratic processes, we can address our challenges more effectively and build a more stable and prosperous future.
By Amb. (Dr.) Ibrahim Tajudeen Shola FCNA, FCTI, FCE, Cifcfin, Fcsi, FCCSA (USA) FCILG (USA)
