A Rights Group, Centre for Human Rights Advocacy and Wholesome Society, (CEHRAWS) has picked holes in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Democracy Day Address to Nigerians via the National Assembly.
CEHRAWS in a statement by its Executive Director, Okoye Chuka Peter, critically reviewed the 2025 Democracy Day address delivered by His Excellency, the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
The statement stated: “While acknowledging the constitutional significance of the day, CEHRAWS expresses serious concern over several claims made by the Presidency which, upon legal and factual examination, do not fully reflect the stark realities faced by millions of Nigerians.
”On Political Pluralism and Democratic Space
Though the President rightly reaffirmed the multi-party nature of Nigeria’s political system as guaranteed under Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), CEHRAWS notes with concern the shrinking democratic space. The harassment of opposition figures, suppression of peaceful protests, and increasing misuse of state security apparatus against dissenting voices constitute grave violations of the Constitution and Nigeria’s international human rights obligations. Democracy cannot thrive on paper alone; it requires genuine tolerance for opposition, respect for rule of law, and protection of civil liberties.
”On Economic Growth Claims
The reported GDP growth of 3.4% in 2024, with a Q4 peak of 4.6%, does not translate into real improvements for the average Nigerian. Despite these macroeconomic figures, unemployment remains high, wages are stagnant, and poverty levels are deepening. As stipulated under Section 16 of the Constitution, government has a binding obligation to ensure economic policies that enhance the welfare of all citizens, not just statistical growth disconnected from people’s lived conditions.
”On Inflation and Food Security
Contrary to the assertion that inflation is easing, food inflation remains above 30% according to official data from the National Bureau of Statistics. The continued surge in prices for basic staples such as rice and beans exposes Nigerians to hunger, malnutrition, and deprivation, in violation of both constitutional directives and Nigeria’s obligations under Article 11 of the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR).
”On Exchange Rate Stability and Debt Sustainability
The reported stabilization of the Naira and increase in foreign reserves must be viewed alongside Nigeria’s growing external debt and heavy dependence on volatile foreign exchange inflows. CEHRAWS calls for full transparency on the country’s debt exposure in accordance with the Fiscal Responsibility Act 2007, Section 44, which mandates prudent debt management and accountability to the Nigerian people.
”On Consumer Credit Schemes
While the Nigerian Consumer Credit Corporation (CREDICORP) initiative is acknowledged, its reach remains limited to a privileged fraction of the population. Broader economic reforms, stronger regulatory frameworks, and social investment are needed to address the systemic poverty affecting over 130 million Nigerians living below the poverty line.
”Democracy Demands Rule of Law
CEHRAWS reminds the government that democracy is not measured by economic statistics alone, but by adherence to the rule of law, respect for fundamental rights, judicial independence, and an open civic space. The continued incidence of police brutality, extra-judicial killings, disregard for court orders, and suppression of media freedom remain serious blots on Nigeria’s democratic credentials.
”As we commemorate Democracy Day, CEHRAWS calls on the Federal Government to match its public declarations with concrete actions that genuinely advance human rights, justice, and the rule of law, in accordance with the Constitution and Nigeria’s international obligations.
”Signed:
Okoye Chuka Peter
Executive Director
+234(0)803-552-9865
”For: CEHRAWS
Aba/Abia State, Nigeria.”
