In an open letter addressed to President Bola Tinubu, Dele Momodu, the owner of Ovation Magazine, has issued a passionate plea for a return to democratic principles and civil liberties. This marks the second time within two weeks that Momodu has reached out to the President, expressing his deep concern over recent developments in Nigeria.
Momodu’s letter, shared publicly via his X account, began by extolling Tinubu’s political journey, recalling his early days as a pro-democracy advocate. “As I write this, my mind goes back to my earliest recollection of you as a Senator of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” Momodu writes. He reminisced about Tinubu’s role during the June 12 Presidential election annulment, highlighting his commitment to democracy despite facing significant challenges.
The letter acknowledges Tinubu’s long-standing influence in Lagos, noted that he has effectively been a “President in Lagos for 24 years before becoming the President of Nigeria.” Momodu reflected on the economic and administrative success of Lagos, describing it as a “country on its own” and “possibly the sixth richest economy in Africa.”
However, Momodu’s tone shifted to one of disillusionment as he addressed the current state of Nigeria. “Unfortunately, things have not been easy for Nigerians (except members of the privilegentsia) since you realized your lifelong ambition,” he writes, expressing frustration over the perceived disconnect between Tinubu’s governance and the realities faced by ordinary citizens. He bluntly states, “And let me be frank Sir. You caused it all. You did not realize that a country is much more complicated than a State.”
In the letter, Dele Momodu voiced concerns over recent restrictions on the August 1st Protest, which he viewed as contrary to the democratic values Tinubu once championed. “I’m sad and embarrassed that a fighter for Democracy is now saying Nigerians will not be allowed to congregate and demonstrate on the streets,” he writes. He emphasizes his support for peaceful solutions, recalling his efforts in peace initiatives abroad, and urges Tinubu to rely on these principles in addressing internal issues.
The open letter also called for decisive action against those threatening public order. “I’m reasonably assured that any potential threat can be contained and nipped in the bud,” Momodu asserted, advocating for swift arrests of those found to be instigating unrest.
He advised President Tinubu to seek counsel from his allies in civil liberties and to resist pressures from those who may favor authoritarian measures. “Ignore the advice of the hawks in your team,” he advised, urging the President to test the strength and readiness of Nigeria’s security apparatus rather than succumbing to what he describes as the temptations of a “full-blown dictatorship.”
In closing, Momodu expressed his support and prayers for Tinubu, acknowledging the heavy responsibilities the President bore. “You’re in my prayers as you bear this cross,” he wrote.
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