Human rights lawyer Inibehe Effiong has voiced strong criticism of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s request for more time to address the nation’s challenges, questioning the rationale behind such a plea after a year in office.
Effiong expressed his concerns through a post on his X handle, stating, “A government that has spent one year in power is asking for more time? More time for what exactly?” He emphasized that Tinubu has a four-year tenure and that citizens should not be expected to delay their protests for a longer period.
He further challenged the president by asking, “What have you done in the last one year to inspire confidence? What sacrifices have you made to convince Nigerians that you mean well for the country?”
Effiong’s remarks reflect a growing frustration among many Nigerians regarding the government’s performance and the urgent need for accountability.
Effiong, known for his advocacy work had put together a legal team in Lagos state to offer representation to any protester who may be arrested and/or charged to court during the forthcoming peaceful protest.
In addition to this, Effiong penned a letter to the Inspector General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, urging him to ensure that Nigerians participating in the planned protest are protected by the country’s security agencies. Effiong emphasized that the proposed protest is not against any law in Nigeria. His letter highlighted relevant provisions, including Sections 39 and 40 of the Constitution, Section 83 (4) of the Nigeria Police Act, 2020, and Section 91 (3) of the Electoral Act 2022. These provisions guarantee citizens’ constitutional right to protest and place a duty on law enforcement agencies to protect protesters
