In a recent interview with Nigerian Tribune, former Lagos deputy governor Chief (Mrs) Kofowola Bucknor-Akerele expressed grave concerns about Nigeria’s current state under President Bola Tinubu.
Reflecting on her political journey, Bucknor-Akerele noted her family’s influence in her entry into politics, emphasizing her father’s belief in the need for greater female representation.
Initially close to Tinubu during his governorship, Bucknor-Akerele revealed that their relationship soured over disagreements regarding the control of the Alliance for Democracy party. Today, she remains distant from Tinubu, as they belong to opposing political parties.
When discussing the country’s dire economic conditions, Bucknor-Akerele stated there’s no consolation to offer the suffering citizens, as many struggle to meet basic needs. She criticized the government’s lack of concrete policies to address the escalating prices of goods and overall economic decline.
On the topic of palliatives, she echoed former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar’s sentiment, arguing that employment and security are vital solutions rather than temporary measures. She urged the government to harness Nigeria’s abundant mineral resources to generate income beyond oil.
Addressing ongoing tensions between Lagos indigenes and non-indigenes in politics, Bucknor-Akerele highlighted her concern over the perceived marginalization of Lagosians. She accused Tinubu of promoting non-indigenes to power, complicating local political dynamics.
Bucknor-Akerele expressed disappointment in the current administration, labeling it a disaster. She emphasized the deteriorating security situation, urging the government to overhaul its security apparatus and tackle the underlying issues that allow terrorism to flourish.
In advocating for women’s increased participation in politics, she encouraged education and resilience against systemic barriers, particularly financial constraints and the prevalence of violence in Nigerian politics.
Ultimately, Bucknor-Akerele believes that the government needs to actively seek and implement advice from qualified individuals to navigate the nation’s myriad challenges effectively.
