Comrade Faduri Oluwadare Joseph, known as Fadojoe, the leader of the Rescue Movement for New Nigeria and former Labour Party Presidential aspirant, has called on Nigerians to unite and elect better leaders in the upcoming 2027 elections. He highlighted that over a year has passed since the removal of the subsidy, yet life remains difficult for many Nigerians.
Fadojoe criticized the government's failure to increase the minimum wage to help ease the suffering of civil servants. "Although the demands of organized labor may seem unrealistic now, a minimum wage of N100,000 or at least N80,000 is necessary," he said.
In his statement for Democracy Day, Fadojoe emphasized the importance of celebrating democracy and remembering those who fought for it, including the late M.K.O. Abiola and Kudirat Abiola. He acknowledged the efforts of current leaders like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in fighting for democracy but questioned whether they are truly benefiting the people now.
"Politicians today have forgotten that people died for the democracy they now enjoy. They should ensure that everyone benefits from democracy, not just themselves," he stated.
Fadojoe urged more Nigerians to participate in the democratic process, noting that in a country of over 200 million people, less than 29% vote in elections. "When you don’t vote, you allow the wrong people to take power, leading to widespread suffering. We need greater participation, especially from the younger generation," he stressed.
He argued that those who don't vote are part of Nigeria's problems, as they enable unfit leaders to take control. "We must elect leaders who will truly represent us, from the president to local councilors. In 2023, we almost succeeded in taking power from the elite. We must keep trying," he added.
Reflecting on the 1993 election, Fadojoe pointed out that it was Nigeria’s freest and fairest election but was annulled by General Ibrahim Babangida. He praised M.K.O. Abiola for uniting Nigerians and bringing hope. Despite military leaders' attempts to hold onto power, Nigeria has experienced uninterrupted democracy since 1999.
Fadojoe also acknowledged President Buhari's decision to recognize June 12 as Democracy Day. However, he expressed concern for the struggles of ordinary Nigerians today. "The poor can no longer afford basic necessities. Three square meals have become a luxury only the rich can afford," he lamented.
Source: Vanguard