#EndBadGovernance protest -"If I were Tinubu in time like this..."

"A Call to Leadership: Addressing the #EndBadGovernance Protests" _Kehinde Adenegan, PhD.

Watching the news, seeing the ongoing protests and a quick flashback to the "End SARS 2020 protest", one will quickly read and feel the agony Nigerians are passing through, not excluding the writer of this piece!

In order not to allow the protest to linger nor degenerate to something else, even beyond the control of the security forces, if I were the President, I will not hesitate to come out to address the nation! His seeming and continued silence is worrisome when the future generations are there on the streets protesting.

If I were in the president position, this will definitely be my address to simply pull back the youths from the streets and reassure them of better governance as the protest is all about "end bad governance in Nigeria". His address should not just be limited to the usual combination of words but action-packed address that will be immediately followed up for implementation. I know this will definitely bring smiles to the faces of the masses and the protesters, even when the remarkable points are yet to be implemented. Below will be my address if I were the President in time like this.

"As President, I understand the gravity of the current situation, with nationwide protests calling for an end to bad governance. In this moment of crisis, I recognize the need for empathetic and effective leadership. Here are remarkable things I will do henceforth to alleviate the problems of Nigerians and restore trust in government:

1. Listen and Engage: I will establish a dialogue with protest leaders and representatives to understand their grievances and concerns. This open communication channel will foster a sense of inclusivity and demonstrate my commitment to addressing the issues. To demonstrate this first, I will reduce the cost of governance by slashing all government functionary packages including mine to 50%, reduce fuel pump price by 50%, reduce oversea trips henceforth, change students loan to special grants, stop unnecessary palliatives that do not get to the targeted audience but strengthen the economy by improving production and the like.

2. Acknowledge and Apologize: I will publicly acknowledge the frustrations and hardships faced by Nigerians, taking responsibility for the government's shortcomings. A sincere apology will show empathy and a willingness to make amends. While I will condole the families of those that have lost their lives, I will appeal to the protesters to return home and take my words for it which will be implemented to the letter.

3. Conduct a Swift and Transparent Investigation: I will order an immediate, transparent investigation into the allegations of bad governance, ensuring accountability and justice for those responsible. Meanwhile, to discourage the Japa syndrome, I will ensure the thorough implementation of the approved minimum wage and create meaningful jobs, as well as job dignity in Nigeria. As situations improve, salary issues will be periodically looked into.

4. Implement Reforms: Based on the investigation's findings, I will introduce and implement meaningful reforms to address the root causes of incessant protests and industrial actions, such as economic inequality, corruption, and poor governance.

5. Foster Economic Growth and Opportunities: I will launch initiatives to stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and empower small businesses and entrepreneurs, ensuring a more equitable distribution of resources.

6. Strengthen Institutions and Rule of Law: I will work to strengthen institutions, ensuring their independence and effectiveness in serving the people. The rule of law will be upheld, and justice will be served.

7. Prioritize Education, Healthcare, and Infrastructure: I will increase investments in essential public services, improving access to quality education, healthcare, and infrastructure, enhancing the overall well-being of Nigerians.

8. Foster National Unity and Inclusivity: I will promote unity and inclusivity, recognizing the diversity of Nigeria's population. Every citizen will have a sense of belonging and equal opportunities".

Apparently, if the President can take a bold step to come out and address the nation and the protesters on the above remarkable issues, these steps will address the concerns of Nigerians, alleviate their suffering, and restore trust in government. 

Let President Tinubu  be committed to leading with empathy, transparency, and accountability, ensuring a brighter future for all Nigerians as obviously contained in suggestive leadership measures in The Tale of Hexagon City book.

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