By Bilesanmi Abayomi
A social commentator, Toyyib Adewale Adelodun, has called on Nigerians and political leaders to openly acknowledge the country’s worsening economic and social challenges rather than downplay the suffering of citizens.
In a statement shared on social media on Thursday, Adelodun criticised comparisons often made between the prices of goods abroad and those in Nigeria without considering differences in wages and living conditions.
According to him, “The people who tell you the price of things abroad, without talking about wages, are your worst enemies.”
He stressed that patriotism should not prevent citizens from speaking honestly about the nation’s realities, noting that Nigeria is currently battling rising unemployment and underemployment.
Adelodun also expressed concern over the growing number of contract workers in the banking sector and other industries, alleging that many employees work without adequate rights or job security.
He further lamented delayed salary payments affecting millions of workers across the country, while questioning why food prices remain high despite Nigeria’s vast agricultural potential.
“Why is food still expensive when God bless us with so much arable land?” he asked.
The commentator urged members of the National Assembly, including senators and members of the House of Representatives, to devote greater attention to policies that directly improve the welfare of Nigerians.
He added that meaningful progress can only be achieved when government and citizens sincerely acknowledge the country’s challenges instead of “gaslighting people who have been suffering and smiling.”