Christmas 2024 will forever be remembered as a day most Nigerians would rather forget. It was marked by numerous setbacks for citizens, including an exponential increase in the cost of telephone calls and data usage in Nigeria. Tariffs for these essential services have risen by a staggering 40%.
By Abdu Labaran
This latest hike in tariffs means life for the average Nigerian will become even more challenging. Citizens must prepare for a rough 2025, contrasting sharply with the supposed “smooth” ride experienced under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in 2024.
Starting January 1, 2025, telephone usage in Nigeria will decline significantly among the less privileged, as the Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has been instructed to accede to the demands of telecom operators for higher rates. The revised costs for calls and data will primarily cater to the elite, who can afford these services regardless of price increases.
While telecom operators will benefit from increased revenue, the federal government stands to gain additional tax income. Unfortunately, much of this revenue is likely to end up in private accounts, facilitated by the pervasive corruption plaguing the nation. A significant portion of the remaining funds will be directed to Lagos and Ogun states under a proposed tax reform bill currently before the National Assembly (NASS).
The urgency with which the Presidency is pushing for this tax reform reveals a strategy to consolidate financial power in the southern regions, further marginalizing the North. The North is often perceived by the President and his southern allies as “excess baggage” within the Nigerian federation.
Ironically, this is the same President Tinubu who, as an opposition leader, frequently criticized government policies that he deemed harmful to citizens. Today, he spearheads an administration imposing relentless economic hardships on the populace—policies reminiscent of those he vehemently opposed during President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure.
Yet, Tinubu’s former allies in activism are conspicuously silent. Among these are a well-known international awardee, a self-righteous lawyer, and a religious politician. Their current silence speaks volumes, especially during a period when their activism is sorely needed. Perhaps their reticence stems from the infamous “Emilokan” mantra, signifying a self-serving agenda.
The duplicity is striking. Two of these activists, despite their differing religious ideologies—one an avowed atheist and the other a self-proclaimed man of God—are united in their tacit approval of this administration. This underscores the urgency for patriotic Nigerians to rise and demand accountability.
There is no better time to join the fight for a better Nigeria than now. The current administration’s corrupt practices and divisive policies will undoubtedly lead to its downfall, by the grace of God. Those complicit in this administration’s failings will find no refuge when justice prevails.
The Tinubu administration’s apparent strategy to isolate and weaken a section of the country is further evident in its ministerial appointments. One minister, a former governor and known adversary of the North, uses his office to obstruct developmental projects in the region while campaigning for the President’s re-election in 2027.
Amid this bleak scenario, figures like Dr. Garus Golobo stand out as voices of reason and patriotism. His consistent stand against corruption and injustice serves as a beacon of hope. Nigeria desperately needs more leaders like him.
Nigerians would likely tolerate the increased telecom tariffs if their incomes could accommodate the hike or if the additional revenue would be used for the nation’s benefit. Regrettably, rampant corruption ensures that these funds will be misappropriated.
The situation mirrors George Orwell’s Animal Farm, where the ruling elite monopolize resources while the masses languish in poverty. It also explains why the President is reportedly maneuvering to install his son as the next governor of Lagos State, perpetuating a dynasty of unchecked accumulation of wealth.
Recently, the Inspector General of Police, Mr. Kayode A. Egbetokun, warned of potential restrictions on social media platforms to curb dissent against government policies. Coupled with the telecom tariff hike, this underscores a troubling pattern of authoritarianism.
The Minister of Communications, Innovation, and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani, hails from the President’s inner circle, making the upward telecom review unsurprising. Under President Tinubu’s watch, Nigeria has become a case study in governance defined by excessive corruption and widespread poverty.
Even neighboring leaders, like General Abdourahamane Tchiani of Niger Republic, have publicly criticized President Tinubu, alleging that his administration prioritizes personal gains over national interests.
At over 75 years of age, one wonders what Tinubu hopes to achieve with his vast accumulation of wealth. No matter how much he amasses, he cannot rival the fortunes of global billionaires like Elon Musk. Ultimately, he will leave it all behind.
May God deliver Nigeria from leaders who treat public resources as their inheritance while citizens starve. Allah Ka ba Nigeria shugabanni masu tsoron Ka.
Labaran wrote from Katsina.
