A prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr. Adetokunbo Pearse, has strongly criticized President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for what he described as a “reckless and deceptive” assurance that Nigeria’s economic hardship will soon ease.
Speaking during an interview on Arise News as part of Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day reflections, Pearse said Tinubu’s optimism is far removed from the daily struggles of ordinary Nigerians.
“President Tinubu is playing games with Nigerians. He keeps saying things will get better soon, but for how long? Nigerians have been hearing that promise for years while their lives get worse,” Pearse said.
According to him, Tinubu’s administration has failed to offer a clear economic direction, with policies that have only deepened inflation, unemployment, and poverty.
“Leaders must be honest with the people. You can’t give false hope when suffering keeps increasing,” he added.
Pearse accused the President of offering “false comfort” to struggling Nigerians, arguing that the government’s reforms lack substance and sustainability.
He further blamed Nigeria’s structural problems on the 1999 Constitution, describing it as “a military creation that stifles true democracy and development.”
“The 1999 Constitution is not a people’s document. It centralizes power in Abuja and prevents states from developing their own resources. That’s why we are stagnant,” he said.
The PDP stalwart insisted that Nigeria’s growth has been hindered by an over-centralized system that keeps natural resources and decision-making under federal control.
“For over 26 years, this constitution has crippled our economic progress. States must have the power to develop their own resources without begging the Federal Government,” Pearse stressed.
He urged the government to revisit the 2014 National Conference recommendations, insisting that another costly round of national dialogue was unnecessary.
“We don’t need another conference. What Nigeria needs is political will to implement the 2014 report,” he said.
Pearse also raised alarm over Nigeria’s worsening insecurity, warning that many communities have effectively fallen under terrorist control.
“Without state police, we cannot protect our people. When states can’t secure their own territories, the country is on the brink of failure,” he warned.
He concluded that true independence and progress would only be achieved through restructuring and true federalism, which empower states with greater autonomy and accountability.
“Until we restructure and return power to the states, Nigeria will remain under disguised military rule,” Pearse stated.
