In his latest intervention, Presidential Monologue (78), Prof Sylvester Akhaine of Lagos State University draws President Bola Tinubu’s attention to four pressing national concerns: the unresolved Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) strike, alleged genocide against Christians in Nigeria, the exercise of presidential prerogative of mercy, and the death of veteran activist Comrade Abiodun Aremu.
Akhaine criticised successive governments for neglecting education, urging the President to “make a difference” by honouring the 1992 ASUU Agreement and prioritising funding, staffing, and autonomy in universities.
On insecurity, he accused authorities of denying what he described as a “patterned genocide” against Christians in parts of the Middle Belt, warning that both religious and ethnic violence threaten national unity. He also cautioned against foreign manipulation of Nigeria’s internal crises.
Commenting on the President’s recent pardon list, Akhaine faulted the inclusion of Herbert Macaulay, calling it “legally untenable” since his conviction predated Nigeria’s independence.
He concluded by mourning Aremu, describing him as a fearless advocate for justice and democracy, while urging the President to ensure his killers are found and brought to book.
