
BY AHMED MUTALAB ADEWALE
In a nation blessed with abundant natural resources and a resilient populace, it is a bitter irony that hunger remains a pressing issue.
The planned hunger protest in Nigeria has become a focal point of national discourse, shedding light on the government’s desperate and often inadequate response to the growing food crisis. This desperation is not only a testament to the severity of the situation but also a stark indicator of the disconnect between the government and the everyday realities faced by its citizens.
The Nigerian government’s reaction to the planned hunger protest reveals a pattern of frantic, short-term solutions that fail to address the root causes of food insecurity. Instead of acknowledging the legitimacy of the protesters’ grievances, the government has often opted for suppression and scapegoating. This approach only serves to deepen the public’s disillusionment and mistrust towards those in power.
Instead of acknowledging the legitimacy of the protesters’ grievances, the government has often opted for suppression and scapegoating. This approach only serves to deepen the public’s disillusionment and mistrust towards those in power.
Firstly, the government’s initial reaction to any form of protest is usually defensive. Rather than engaging with the protesters and seeking to understand their concerns, the state often deploys security forces to intimidate and disperse gatherings. This tactic, reminiscent of autocratic regimes, not only stifles democratic expression but also exacerbates the sense of disenfranchisement among the populace. The planned hunger protest is a cry for help, a desperate plea for the government to fulfill its basic obligation to ensure food security. Meeting such a cry with force is not only counterproductive but morally indefensible.
Furthermore, the government’s desperation is evident in its piecemeal and reactive policies. While there have been numerous promises of agricultural reforms and food aid programs, these initiatives are often marred by corruption, inefficiency, and lack of continuity. Temporary relief measures, such as emergency food distributions, may provide short-term respite but do little to address the systemic issues plaguing the agricultural sector. The emphasis on quick fixes rather than sustainable solutions highlights a lack of genuine commitment to eradicating hunger.
The economic policies of the government have also contributed to the worsening food crisis. High inflation rates, coupled with unemployment and a depreciating currency, have significantly reduced the purchasing power of ordinary Nigerians. The rural farmers, who are the backbone of the country’s food production, are often neglected in policy considerations. Without access to modern farming equipment, affordable credit, and adequate storage facilities, these farmers are unable to maximize their output, further straining the food supply chain.
Additionally, the government’s failure to address insecurity in key agricultural regions has had a devastating impact on food production. The incessant conflicts between farmers and herders, along with the activities of insurgent groups, have displaced many farmers and rendered large swathes of fertile land unusable. A comprehensive approach to national security that incorporates the protection of agricultural zones is crucial for any meaningful progress in combating hunger.
The desperation of the Nigerian government over the planned hunger protest is also reflective of a broader issue: the disconnect between policymakers and the citizens they serve. Many in the corridors of power are far removed from the daily struggles of the average Nigerian. This detachment leads to policies that are not only ineffective but also insensitive to the needs of the people. Bridging this gap requires a more inclusive approach to governance, where the voices of the marginalized and vulnerable are heard and considered in decision-making processes.
In conclusion, the planned hunger protest in Nigeria is a poignant reminder of the urgent need for a more responsive and empathetic government. Desperation should not be the driving force behind policy decisions; instead, a genuine commitment to the welfare of the people should guide governmental actions. Addressing the hunger crisis requires long-term, sustainable solutions that tackle the root causes of food insecurity. The government must move beyond defensive and reactive measures and engage in meaningful dialogue with its citizens. Only then can Nigeria hope to overcome the scourge of hunger and build a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
AHMED MUTALAB ADEWALE a public commentator writes from Osogbo, Osun state