In a fervent appeal to Nigeria’s political class, Otunba Rotimi Ajanaku, prominent businessman, socialite, and Chief Executive of Ajanaku Holdings, has voiced deep concern over the growing humanitarian crisis engulfing the nation. He urged politicians to suspend their political ambitions and refocus on the immediate needs of the Nigerian people, who are grappling with escalating hardship and insecurity.
Speaking candidly to journalists on Friday, Ajanaku attributed the deteriorating situation to misdirection, misplaced priorities and lack of trust in leaders. He emphasized that the solution lies not solely with President Bola Tinubu, but through collective responsibility and support for the government.
He underscored that this hardship, which affects millions across Nigeria, cannot be ignored or brushed aside, as it threatens the very fabric of society.
“Our economic situation is dire,” he said. “Millions of Nigerians are suffering terribly, including the youth and children. The hardship has reached a critical point, and we must act now to save lives and prevent further deterioration of our nation.”
Ajanaku highlighted that the current economic distress cannot be alleviated solely through the actions of President Bola Tinubu, as some have been led to believe. Although he expressed faith in Tinubu’s leadership, he clarified that real change requires collaboration at all levels of government and commitment from state and local leaders who are closer to the people. He pointed out that many federal government policies, though well-intentioned, are designed for long-term impact and thus are insufficient for addressing the urgent needs of those in vulnerable communities.
“While I trust President Tinubu’s capacity to lead Nigeria towards a better future, the immediate needs of our people demand collective action now,” Ajanaku stated. “Local governments must step up and address the suffering in their communities. This isn’t solely the President’s responsibility—it’s a shared duty that requires compassion and urgency.”
He urged politicians to prioritize humanitarian initiatives over political agendas, calling the continued focus on the upcoming 2027 elections “unconscionable” given the current plight of the people. According to Ajanaku, many politicians are preoccupied with campaigns and media appearances, often publicizing token acts of charity that fail to address the depth of the crisis.
“It’s shocking to see politicians rushing to campaign for 2027 when citizens are suffering daily from hunger,” Ajanaku remarked. “Why parade your generosity on social media when people are dying from lack of basic necessities? Genuine giving should be discreet and meaningful, aiming to ease the community’s suffering—not for publicity.”
In his impassioned plea, Ajanaku urged political figures, corporate leaders, and other stakeholders to put aside at least 20 percent of their resources to support those in need within their communities. He expressed confidence that such coordinated efforts would alleviate immediate pressures and enable the federal government to create lasting solutions without being weighed down by widespread poverty and unrest.
Ajanaku also pointed out that despite increased monthly allocations from the federal government to states and local councils, there has been little improvement in the welfare of the masses. He challenged leaders across all tiers of government to be accountable and utilize their resources to bring immediate relief to the people.
“Federal allocations continue to be distributed, and in many cases, they’ve increased,” Ajanaku noted. “There is no excuse for our elected officials and government agencies to stand idle while our people suffer. It’s time for them to act, to wipe the tears from our people’s faces.”
Ajanaku concluded by emphasizing the importance of unity and collective resolve to confront Nigeria’s numerous challenges, from poverty and insurgency to kidnapping and other social vices. He called on all Nigerians, regardless of status, to rise to the occasion, standing together to help the country regain its footing.
“While we trust in President Tinubu’s leadership to steer Nigeria towards a brighter future, let us also unite in a shared mission: to liberate our people from poverty, eradicate social vices, and restore peace in our beloved nation. Long live Nigeria,” Ajanaku said.
As hardship reaches unprecedented levels, Ajanaku’s words resonate as a call to action, urging those in positions of influence to look beyond personal gain and political power, and to prioritize the well-being of the Nigerian people above all else.