Before becoming Nigeria’s president, Bola Ahmed Tinubu was vocal in his criticism of then-President Goodluck Jonathan. Amid mounting security challenges and governance failures, Tinubu publicly pressured Jonathan to resign, arguing that his continued stay in office was detrimental to Nigeria’s unity and progress. Tinubu’s stance was rooted in a promise of accountability and performance, famously telling Nigerians that they should “stone” him if he failed to deliver on his own promises once in power.
However, nearly two years into his presidency, Tinubu’s administration has been widely criticized for exacerbating Nigeria’s hardships rather than alleviating them. The cost of living has soared to strangulating levels, plunging millions deeper into poverty. Security challenges have worsened, with violent attacks and killings reported in multiple states, while the president’s absence from the country during critical periods has drawn sharp rebukes.
Tinubu’s Past Call for Jonathan’s Resignation
Tinubu’s demand for Jonathan’s resignation was grounded in a narrative of urgent change. Former President Goodluck Jonathan’s tenure was marked by significant security lapses and economic difficulties, which Tinubu and others argued necessitated a leadership change. In March 2025, former President Jonathan himself criticized Tinubu’s leadership, describing his actions as “a clear abuse of office, power, and privilege,” highlighting the irony of Tinubu’s current predicament after having once called for Jonathan’s exit.
Tinubu’s promise to Nigerians was clear: he vowed to perform or face public rejection. His campaign was built on the hope of renewal and reform, with Nigerians eager for a leader who would tackle corruption, insecurity, and economic stagnation head-on.
The Reality of Tinubu’s Presidency: Economic Hardship and Rising Insecurity
Contrary to the optimism that greeted his inauguration, Nigeria is now grappling with its worst cost-of-living crisis in nearly three decades. The removal of fuel subsidies and other economic reforms introduced by Tinubu’s government have deepened poverty and frustration among Nigerians. Millions struggle to afford basic necessities as inflation soars and unemployment remains high2.
Security has also deteriorated. Despite promises to prioritize national security, violent attacks continue unabated across the country. States like Plateau, Benue, and Kaduna have witnessed massacres, kidnappings, and banditry, with hundreds of lives lost and thousands displaced. The military and security agencies have struggled to contain the violence, leading to widespread fear and uncertainty.
Leadership in Absence: Tinubu’s Controversial Foreign Trips
Adding to public discontent is President Tinubu’s repeated travel abroad amid escalating domestic crises. His extended stay in France in April 2025, during a surge in violent attacks and killings, sparked outrage from opposition leaders and civil society. Critics, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, condemned Tinubu for governing “from afar” and questioned the necessity and timing of his foreign visits.
The president’s absence during critical moments has been perceived as a lack of commitment to addressing Nigeria’s pressing challenges. Opposition figures have called for his immediate return, arguing that effective leadership requires physical presence and active engagement, especially in times of national emergency.
The Call for Accountability and Resignation
Tinubu’s own words now haunt him. During his campaign and early presidency, he told Nigerians to “stone” him if he failed to deliver on his promises. Yet, the worsening economic conditions, escalating insecurity, and perceived detachment from national issues have led many Nigerians to question his fitness to lead.
The contrast between Tinubu’s past demands for Jonathan’s resignation and his current predicament is stark. Where he once positioned himself as the harbinger of change and accountability, he now faces mounting pressure to step down for failing to meet the expectations he set.
A Moment for Reflection and Responsibility
Nigeria stands at a crossroads. The leadership that promised renewal and hope has instead presided over hardship and insecurity. President Tinubu’s administration must reckon with the growing disillusionment among Nigerians and the urgent need for effective governance.
If Tinubu is to honor his own pledge, he must acknowledge the realities on the ground and consider the calls for his resignation not as a defeat, but as a demonstration of accountability and respect for the Nigerian people. Leadership is not merely about holding office; it is about serving the people’s interests and responding to their needs.
As Nigerians endure economic strain and security threats, the time has come for Tinubu to either rededicate himself to transformative leadership or step aside to allow new leadership capable of restoring peace, prosperity, and hope to the nation.
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References:
1 ModernGhana, “When Power Becomes A Weapon: Jonathan Hints At Tinubu,” March 24, 2025
2 Human Rights Watch, “Hope or Hardship for Nigeria? Tinubu's Economic Reforms and their Fallout,” October 24, 2024
3 THISDAYLIVE, “How Has Nation's Security Fared Under Tinubu?” May 28, 2024
4 Punch, “Tinubu's France Retreat Sparks Backlash Amid Rising Insecurity,” April 17, 2025
