Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) chieftain and Convener of Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, has outlined two crucial steps that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must take to avoid public backlash. Yakubu insists that Tinubu should pursue the recovery of stolen public funds from the previous administration and avoid appointing former state governors with unresolved salary issues into his cabinet.
Yakubu also emphasizes the importance of setting clear timelines for the Service Chiefs to tackle insurgency and related crimes in the country.
Regarding Garba Shehu’s statement that Buhari did not remove fuel subsidy for electoral gain, Yakubu expresses surprise and disappointment, stating that Buhari had campaigned against the subsidy and should have prioritized its removal for the benefit of the country.
On Femi Falana’s comment that Buhari’s statement was an insult, Yakubu concurs, highlighting the need for caution and responsible communication from Buhari’s media team.
Responding to the European Union’s observation that the 2023 elections lacked transparency, Yakubu acknowledges imperfections but urges the EU to respect Nigeria’s sovereignty. He suggests that African representatives be invited to observe European elections for a balanced assessment.
Yakubu commends the Oba of Benin for publicly criticizing former Minister Clement Agba’s poor performance and neglect of his people, calling on other leaders to follow suit.
He agrees with former Senator Shehu Sani’s warning that failure to pursue looters of public funds could lead to repercussions for Tinubu. Yakubu emphasizes that Nigerians expect accountability and justice.
Yakubu believes that Buhari did not support Tinubu’s presidential bid, considering the events leading up to the primaries. He dismisses Buhari’s statement as an afterthought and asserts that Nigerians are politically conscious and cannot be easily deceived.
Regarding the appointment of Service Chiefs, Yakubu expresses satisfaction with the selection and advises Tinubu to hold them accountable and establish consequences for ineptitude.
Yakubu acknowledges the outcry over university fee hikes and suggests that the gains from subsidy removal be placed in a trust fund managed by reputable individuals to alleviate the burden on parents and students.
In response to criticism of Tinubu’s long convoy, Yakubu agrees that it is an economic waste and advises caution in future arrangements.
Yakubu agrees that leadership should lead by example and make sacrifices for the betterment of the country, acknowledging Nigerians’ resilience but urging Tinubu to take prompt action.
Regarding Tinubu’s intention to appoint young technocrats and possibly former governors, Yakubu advises against the latter due to their poor track records and outstanding salary issues. He supports Tinubu’s idea of appointments cutting across political parties for national competency and healing electoral divisions.
Yakubu concludes by affirming his commitment to holding President Tinubu accountable and urging him to make decisive and timely decisions, citing Buhari’s lack of firmness and delayed decision-making as pitfalls to avoid.