August 11, 2024
The Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA Resource Centre), has called for a decisive action from President Tinubu’s administration to address the demands of the nationwide hunger protesters.
The protests, which has gained national attention, highlight the urgent need for increased government accountability and a significant reduction in the cost of governance across Nigeria.
In a statement issued by HEDA Chairman Olanrewaju Suraju, the prominent civil society organization dedicated to anti-corruption, good governance, and human rights emphasized that the 10-day demonstrations have underscored the demands of millions of Nigerians for greater transparency and accountability in government.
Suraju remarked, “These widespread protests represent a critical juncture for the government to implement meaningful reforms that address both the immediate concerns of the demonstrators and set the stage for sustainable development and good governance.”
HEDA has called on President Tinubu to utilize this opportunity to curb wasteful spending and ensure that public resources are managed with integrity. The group stressed that the high cost of governance has long been a drain on the nation’s economy, diverting resources away from essential sectors such as education, agriculture, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Suraju urged, “Now is the time for the government at all levels to commit to transparency, reduce waste, and prioritize the welfare of all Nigerians.”
In addition, HEDA has appealed to State Governors to review and adjust their budgets, eliminate unnecessary expenditures, and establish mechanisms for holding public officials accountable at the state and local levels.
“The demand for good governance extends beyond the federal government; it is a nationwide call requiring a unified response from all levels of government,” Suraju added.
HEDA Resource Centre reaffirmed its commitment to monitoring government actions and advocating for citizens’ rights, promising to continue its efforts in promoting transparency and accountability.
