The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria, (HURIWA), has condemned President Bola Tinubus recent economic policies, saying they have undermined Nigerias sovereignty.
HURIWA noted that the condemnation comes in the wake of Tinubus dramatic policy shift, which it said starkly contrasts with his previous stance against similar policies under former President Goodluck Jonathan.
In a press statement, the association recalled that before ascending to the Presidency, Tinubu was a vocal critic of the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and World Banks economic prescriptions.
According to the group, during Jonathans administration, Tinubu, and other prominent figures, including then-opposition leader Muhammadu Buhari, fiercely opposed the IMF and World Banks recommendations such as the removal of subsidies and the devaluation of the Naira, arguing that these policies would harm Nigerias economic stability and undermine the nations sovereignty.
It said, However, since taking office, Tinubu has adopted and intensified these very policies, leading to accusations of hypocrisy from various quarters.
Critics have criticised Tinubu for this reversal, labeling it a betrayal of his earlier principles. According to them, Tinubus current endorsement of the IMF and World Bank measures, which he previously opposed, represents a significant departure from his earlier stance and effectively compromises Nigerias economic independence.
HURIWA echoed these concerns, arguing that the devaluation of the Naira and the implementation of foreign-influenced economic policies weaken Nigerias financial sovereignty.
The association pointed out that by aligning Nigerias economic strategy with foreign interests, the current administration is ceding control over the countrys financial system to external forces, stressing that this shift not only diminishes the nations economic autonomy but also places Nigeria at the mercy of international economic pressures.
In addition to criticising the economic policies, HURIWA also linked these measures to broader security concerns. The association contended that the failure of Nigerias security agencies to effectively protect the countrys borders is directly related to the administrations economic strategies.
According to HURIWA, inadequate border security has allowed armed non-state actors and criminals to infiltrate the country, further threatening Nigerias sovereignty. This situation, it argues, is a consequence of prioritizing foreign economic directives over national stability and security.
HURIWAs critique extended to a call for the Government to adhere to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Act, which obliges the administration to stabilise the Naira. The association emphasised that protecting the national currency is crucial for maintaining Nigerias economic sovereignty and stability. Additionally, HURIWA urged the government to improve efforts to secure Nigerias borders, reinforcing measures to prevent the infiltration of terrorists, arms smugglers, and other illicit actors.
Drawing comparisons with other nations, HURIWA highlighted how countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom have successfully defended their economic and territorial sovereignty.
The association further argued that Nigerias political leaders should adopt similar strategies to protect both economic stability and national security.
