Politics
Nigeria at Its Worst? Why 83% of Nigerians Have Lost Trust in the Presidency
Nigeria at Its Worst? Why 83% of Nigerians Have Lost Trust in the Presidency.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com
“An Evidence-Based Examination of Public Discontent Under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
As Nigeria enters 2026, a staggering verdict is emerging from the very people who carry the nation’s hopes and bear the cost of its burdens: more than eight out of every ten Nigerians now express little to no trust in the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and key national institutions. Recent independent surveys unequivocally reveal deep-seated public dissatisfaction with governance, underscoring why a broad segment of the population perceives his presidency as one of the most disappointing in Nigeria’s history.
This article does not traffic in unfounded rhetoric or partisan opinion. What follows is a grounded, data-driven exploration of the frustrations gripping Nigeria and rooted firmly in credible public opinion research, verified public polls and widely documented socio-economic realities.
I. The Numbers Speak Louder Than Words.
The most damning indictment of President Tinubu’s leadership comes from the 2025 Nigeria Social Cohesion Survey released by the Africa Polling Institute (API); a respected, non-partisan research think-tank.
According to the report:
83% of Nigerians express little to no trust in President Tinubu’s federal government.
82% do not trust the National Assembly.
79% lack confidence in the judiciary.
Over half (53%) of Nigerians say they feel disappointed in Nigeria’s state as a nation.
Such figures are not marginal; they indicate systemic distrust. By comparison, most functioning democracies see trust metrics in the range of 60 to 80% for their executive branches during good performance periods. Nigeria’s plummeting trust index underscores a crisis of confidence not mere political disagreement.
Furthermore, past approval metrics also emphasize public disapproval: One mid-term poll placed President Tinubu’s approval rating at a low 37%, with disapproval significantly outpacing approval.
II. Why Public Trust Has Eroded.
A. Economic Hardship and Daily Life.
Economic challenges have been the most pervasive concern voiced by Nigerians across regions and demographics. Independent surveys consistently show that:
Nearly 65% of respondents say that economic hardship and the rising cost of living are the most pressing problems facing the country under Tinubu’s administration.
Only 12.5% believe his reform agenda has greatly benefited the average Nigerian.
A key turning point was the removal of petrol subsidies, a policy widely criticised for its sudden implementation and weak cushioning mechanisms. While some economists argue this move was long overdue, millions of ordinary Nigerians experienced rapid price inflation, higher transport costs and a sharp drop in purchasing power.
The Africa Polling Institute’s data reinforce this reality, showing that rising prices for food, transport and basic services have become day-to-day struggles for families across the country.
B. Insecurity and Public Safety.
For any government, ensuring citizens safety is a fundamental obligation. And on this front, Nigerians increasingly feel abandoned:
Kidnappings, banditry and violent crime have surged in many states, prompting schools to shut campuses and families to live in fear. Observers have noted that insecurity remains one of the defining obstacles to national progress.
Even when security agencies report tactical gains, many Nigerians insist that the lived reality on the ground contradicts official narratives as a gap between state claims and citizens daily experiences.
C. Weakening National Cohesion.
The API survey’s Social Cohesion Index (recorded at just 46.8%) indicates that Nigerians are more fragmented and distrustful of institutions than at any point in recent survey history. When trust falters in the executive, legislative and judicial branches simultaneously, the very glue that holds a nation together begins to weaken.
Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar described 2025 as “one of the most punishing years in Nigeria’s recent history”, attributing rising poverty and insecurity to missteps by the Tinubu administration.
III. Public Leaders and Experts: What They Are Saying.
This is not merely a grassroots grievance; respected national voices, including academics, analysts and even figures within the political elite, have been openly critical.
Renowned governance expert Professor Bell Ihua, commenting on the API survey, observed that the pervasive distrust in government institutions reflects a profound crisis of leadership and social contract.
Former Kaduna state governor Nasir El-Rufai claimed in an independent poll that the Tinubu government suffers from a 91% disapproval rating nationwide which is a striking statement even by political opposition standards.
These critiques resonate with public sentiment: when those entrusted with public office at all levels are seen as falling short, citizens’ frustration becomes palpable and widespread.
IV. The Broader Consequences of Widespread Disapproval.
A. Democratic Instability.
When public trust falls below critical thresholds (below 50%), democracies often encounter heightened volatility—rising polarization, weakened civil institutions and challenges to legitimacy. Nigeria’s low trust metrics signal deeper issues than policy dissatisfaction; they reflect a populace that feels increasingly unheard and unprotected.
B. Economic Stagnation and Brain Drain.
With rising living costs and limited opportunities, many Nigerians consider relocating abroad. Reports show that a majority express dissatisfaction with their current quality of life, and many would choose to migrate if given the chance.
This represents not just an economic loss but a tragic drain of human potential—the very talents needed to build Nigeria’s future.
V. A Nation at a Crossroads.
It is easy to dismiss public dissatisfaction as mere political noise, but the numbers tell a stark truth: Nigeria stands at a critical inflection point. When more than eight out of ten citizens have lost faith in the presidency, the danger is not only poor leadership; it is the erosion of the social contract that binds a diverse nation.
As political theorist Francis Fukuyama once wrote, “‘Trust is the foundation of all institutions and the lifeblood of healthy governance.’” In a country where trust is failing, the road ahead must be one of national dialogue, institutional reform and renewed commitment to citizen welfare.
Whether Nigerians are justified in claiming that the current presidency is the “worst in history” remains a matter of interpretation. Though the overwhelming evidence of public discontent, institutional distrust, economic hardship and insecurity paints a sobering picture of leadership in crisis.
If Nigeria is to recover its collective hope, strong and responsive governance (rooted in transparent accountability and genuine public engagement) is urgently needed. Only then can trust be rebuilt and Nigeria’s promise be restored.
Governor Dauda Lawal Named Part of Presidential Delegation for Historic UK State Visit
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has been named as a member of the presidential entourage that will accompany President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on a historic two-day State Visit to the United Kingdom.
According to a statement from the Zamfara State Government House on Monday, the Governor will depart Abuja for the UK on Tuesday for the visit, which is scheduled to take place on March 18 and 19 at the invitation of the British Royal Family.
During the visit, King Charles III will host President Tinubu, the First Lady, and the Nigerian delegation at Windsor Castle, where they will view a special exhibition of Royal Collection items related to Nigeria. The Royal Family will also host a State Banquet in honour of the Nigerian guests on the evening of Wednesday, March 18.
The presidency has outlined that the purpose of the visit is to strengthen bilateral relations between Nigeria and the United Kingdom. President Tinubu is scheduled to hold talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer, which are expected to lead to expanded bilateral discussions and the signing of Memorandums of Understanding covering trade, investment, defence, and cultural cooperation.
The President will also serve as the guest of honour at the Nigerian Modernism exhibition, which showcases contemporary art and culture, and will participate in a reception with Nigerian and British business leaders as well as members of the diaspora community.
The Zamfara State Government expressed confidence that Governor Lawal’s participation in the high-level delegation will provide valuable networking opportunities, opening significant prospects for investment and economic benefits for Zamfara State. The visit will also see Governor Lawal display his repertoire of knowledge on global policy and corporate governance and also pitch the Mineral and Farming rich state to potential investors during the bilateral meeting with the UK Prime Minister, Keir Starmer.
Politics
LPDC Verdict: CRG Hails Decision Clearing Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Condemns Political Witch-Hunt
LPDC Verdict: CRG Hails Decision Clearing Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, Condemns Political Witch-Hunt
The Centre for Responsible Governance (CRG) has welcomed the decision of the Legal Practitioners Disciplinary Committee (LPDC) dismissing the complaint filed against the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, describing the ruling as a clear affirmation of due process and institutional integrity.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, the spokesman of the Centre, Obande George, said the verdict of the disciplinary body has once again vindicated the Deputy Speaker and reaffirmed the position earlier taken by CRG that the allegations against him lacked merit.
The LPDC, in its ruling referenced BB/LPDC/1954/2026, held that no prima facie case had been established against the Deputy Speaker and dismissed the complaint in its entirety.
According to George, the decision demonstrates the importance of allowing competent institutions to examine allegations objectively rather than rushing to judgment in the court of public opinion.
“From the onset, the Centre for Responsible Governance maintained that justice must take its course. We insisted that competent institutions should be allowed to examine the issues without political pressure or sensationalism. The LPDC’s ruling has now clearly shown that the allegations had no foundation,” he said.
The CRG spokesman further stated that the decision reinforces the sterling reputation of the Deputy Speaker, who has over the years built a distinguished profile both as a legal practitioner and as a legislator.
“Honourable Benjamin Kalu is a respected member of the Nigerian Bar and an accomplished lawmaker. Attempts by some individuals to impugn his reputation through unfounded allegations were unfortunate and unnecessary.”
CRG also condemned the actions of certain civil society groups that were quick to demand that the Deputy Speaker step aside from office even before any formal determination had been made by the relevant authorities.
George described such calls as premature and irresponsible, noting that they contributed to the politicisation of a matter that required sober institutional review.
“It is disappointing that some civil society organisations rushed to demand that the Deputy Speaker step aside without allowing due process to run its course. Advocacy for accountability must be guided by facts and fairness, not by sensational pressure.”
The organisation also criticised what it described as the role played by some political actors from the South East who allegedly sought to exploit the controversy for narrow political interests.
According to CRG, it is troubling that certain politicians would attempt to undermine one of their own for short-term political advantage.
“It is even more disturbing that some political actors from the South East appeared eager to weaponise this matter in an attempt to bring down one of their own for cheap political gain. Such actions weaken collective political progress and erode the spirit of solidarity required for national development.”
CRG therefore called on Nigerians to learn from the episode and reaffirm respect for institutional processes and the rule of law.
The organisation stressed that public discourse must be guided by evidence, fairness and responsible engagement rather than rumours or politically motivated campaigns.
“The lesson here is simple: allegations must be tested by competent institutions before conclusions are drawn. Nigeria’s democracy will only grow stronger when due process is respected and reputations are not casually destroyed.”
CRG concluded by congratulating the Deputy Speaker for maintaining calm and dignity throughout the controversy, noting that his composure reflected confidence in the justice system.
@The Centre for Responsible Governance, Email: [email protected], Instagram: crgngo6, Twitter: crgng06, Threads: crgngo6
Obasa Appointed to CPA African Executive Committee
The Speaker of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. (Dr.) Mudashiru Ajayi Obasa, has been appointed as a Sub-National Representative to the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) African Executive Committee.
The announcement was formally conveyed through a letter from the CPA Africa Region, which was read on the floor of the Assembly by the Clerk, Mr. Olalekan Onafeko, on Tuesday, March 10. The appointment confirms Speaker Obasa’s three-year tenure, spanning 2026 to 2029.
Lawmakers took turns to congratulate Speaker Obasa, praising his devotion to parliamentary service and his consistent efforts to strengthen legislative practice. They described his appointment as a recognition of his hard work and a reflection of Lagos State’s growing influence within the Commonwealth. Members noted that his achievements continue to bring pride not only to Lagos but to Nigeria as a whole.
In his remarks, Speaker Obasa expressed gratitude to his colleagues for their support, urging them to remain steadfast in prioritizing the progress of the Assembly and to continue working collectively to advance the legislature. He further directed the Clerk to send a formal letter of appreciation to the CPA African Region for the honour bestowed upon him. “Let us always put the House of Assembly first and never relent in our efforts to move the legislature forward, ” Obasa concluded.
The CPA African Region plays a pivotal role in advancing the interests of African parliaments within the Commonwealth. It is widely recognized for promoting gender equality, women’s empowerment, respect for human rights, democracy, and good governance across member nations.
-
society6 months agoReligion: Africa’s Oldest Weapon of Enslavement and the Forgotten Truth
-
news3 months agoWHO REALLY OWNS MONIEPOINT? The $290 Million Deal That Sold Nigeria’s Top Fintech to Foreign Interests
-
society6 months ago“You Are Never Without Help” – Pastor Gebhardt Berndt Inspires Hope Through Empower Church (Video)
-
society7 months agoWho is Chief Kestin Pondi? Niger Delta’s “People’s Chief” Winning Hearts With Hundreds of Millions in Generosity