Prophet Isa El-Buba Criticizes Tinubu’s Governance: "He Wants to Turn Nigeria Into a Police State"
By Wisdom Tide
23/09/2024
In a recent interview with the Nigerian Tribune, Prophet Isa El-Buba, the convener of the Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN) and General Overseer of El-Buba Outreach Ministries International (EBOMI), voiced his concerns over the direction of Nigeria under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's leadership. El-Buba, a well-known clergyman and social activist, shared his deep apprehensions regarding what he perceives as increasing authoritarianism and growing discontent among Nigerians.
A History of Protest and Mobilization
Reflecting on President Tinubu’s political journey, El-Buba expressed surprise at the president’s current actions, especially given his background as a former protest leader. "He knows this situation all too well," El-Buba remarked, recalling how Tinubu’s rise to prominence was largely built on his ability to galvanize public support during critical political moments. Tinubu, as El-Buba pointed out, was pivotal in mobilizing resistance against former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s efforts to undermine local government structures in Lagos.
"This ability to mobilize the masses should serve as a reminder to Tinubu about the power of the people," El-Buba emphasized, urging the president not to forget the role protests played in his own political ascent.
Warning of a Growing Authoritarian State
El-Buba’s critique of Tinubu’s administration was pointed, with the clergyman warning of a shift towards authoritarianism. "Now, he wants to turn Nigeria into a police state, where everyone just says ‘yes, sir’ without questioning," El-Buba declared. He argued that while the general population may appear subdued, there is an undercurrent of potential unrest brewing beneath the surface.
"But the truth is, Nigerians may stay quiet for a while, but when they react, no one can hold them back," he cautioned, predicting that Tinubu’s attempt to suppress dissent will ultimately backfire.
The Spirit of Protest is Alive Among Nigerian Youth
El-Buba asserted that the spirit of protest and resistance remains strong among Nigeria’s youth, hinting at a generational continuity of activism. "The same way Tinubu succeeded by using protests is the same way the next generation will use it. This issue is far from over. You will see what happens," he predicted.
According to El-Buba, even a small group of committed individuals has the potential to ignite significant change. He highlighted the dangers of governmental oppression, noting that there are Nigerians willing to lay down their lives for the cause of justice and freedom. "It is not about the multitude; it is about the few with conviction. That is where the government is getting it wrong."
Government’s Approach to Suppressing Dissent
The clergyman also criticized the government’s efforts to silence dissent through sponsored counter-protests and other repressive tactics. "The people they sponsor, the ones they pay, couldn’t break the will of those who volunteered to speak to the government," El-Buba observed. He suggested that such tactics are only serving to weaken the government’s position and undermine its credibility.
"In my view, this government is shooting itself in the foot. That is just the reality," he added, pointing to the growing divide between the rulers and the ruled.
Commitment to Peaceful Protest
Despite his criticisms of the government, El-Buba emphasized the importance of peaceful protest. He recalled the efforts made during recent demonstrations in the Plateau region, where his organization played a key role in maintaining order. "We have been praying for them to succeed, which is why we managed the crowd here on the Plateau. We made sure there was no violence, no threats to anyone," he explained, underscoring his commitment to peaceful and constructive engagement rather than violent confrontation.
A Bleak Outlook for Nigeria’s Future
El-Buba expressed deep concern over the future of Nigeria under Tinubu’s leadership, questioning how long Nigerians can endure the current hardships. "But how can people live in this kind of bondage for the next four years, even the next three years?" he asked, his voice heavy with concern. He painted a grim picture of a society on the brink, with many Nigerians struggling to survive under the weight of economic and political challenges.
El-Buba’s critique of the Tinubu administration is a powerful reflection of the growing dissatisfaction within the country, as well as a warning of the potential consequences of continued oppression and disregard for the people’s voices.
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