Tinubu’s Integrity Questioned: Okonkwo Calls for Onanuga’s Dismissal

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu recently addressed the nation regarding ongoing protests and economic hardships, but his speech has sparked controversy and criticism. Lawyer Kenneth Okonkwo offered a critical analysis of the president’s address during an appearance on Channels TV.

Okonkwo expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of the fuel subsidy removal, pointing out that fuel is still being purchased at “ridiculous prices.” He suggested that the president seemed reluctant to deliver the speech, noting that “a bad speech is worse than no speech at all.”

The lawyer took particular issue with a section of Tinubu’s address where the president warned against those who might exploit the current situation to threaten specific regions of the country, emphasizing that there is no place for ethnic bigotry.

Okonkwo used this point to highlight what he perceives as inconsistency in the president’s stance. He referenced Bayo Onanuga, a media aide to the president, who allegedly made controversial statements about Igbos following the 2023 elections. Okonkwo argued that if Tinubu is sincere about his commitment to national unity and addressing ethnic bigotry, his first step should be to sack Onanuga.

Key Takeaways:
Fuel Subsidy Concerns: Despite the removal of the fuel subsidy, fuel prices remain high, leading to public dissatisfaction.
Speech Criticism: Okonkwo criticized the president’s speech, suggesting it was reluctantly delivered and ineffective.
Ethnic Bigotry: Tinubu’s call against exploiting ethnic divisions is seen as inconsistent due to his media aide’s alleged past comments.
Call for Action: Okonkwo believes that to prove his sincerity, Tinubu should dismiss Bayo Onanuga.