“Lies, Deceit and Corruption Can’t Improve Welfare” — Nigerians Urge FG to Change Course

Some concerned Nigerians have called on the Federal Government to urgently “retrace its steps,” warning that lies, deceit and corruption cannot translate into improved welfare for citizens.

The citizens expressed their frustrations on Monday when Vanguard sampled public opinion on recent developments across the country, particularly the worsening insecurity and economic hardship.

For Nze Peter Chika Odoemena, life in Nigeria has been steadily devalued by persistent violence and official indifference. He lamented the recurring killings of innocent Nigerians, describing the recent murder of over 40 people in a market attack as yet another reminder of the country’s deepening crisis.

“We have been grappling with the endless massacre of innocent souls for years, and we keep behaving as if nothing has happened,” he said. “Why should anybody be a refugee in his or her own country? Why must schools be shut down because of the activities of non-state actors?”

Odoemena questioned government assurances on security, noting that claims of having adequate manpower and resources have not reflected reality. He stressed that “lies, deceit and corruption, no matter how small, can’t improve citizens’ welfare,” urging the government to always keep this in mind.

Similarly, Jonathan Chiedo Ikegwuruka criticised what he described as excessive politicking at the expense of governance. He said Nigerians are weary of official statistics that paint a rosy picture of living standards.

“We are tired of figures being bandied by the government on the supposed welfare level of the citizenry,” he said. “How can we talk about food security when farmers are afraid to go to their farms? How can anyone say things are better when roads to rural communities have become death traps?”

Ikegwuruka also decried the collapse of public utilities, pointing out that access to electricity and potable water has become a personal struggle for most households. He raised concerns about the unchecked drilling of boreholes and the possible environmental and health risks involved.

Mrs Stella Ogechi Omenka also expressed deep concern about the country’s direction, saying Nigeria is facing serious challenges that must be openly acknowledged.

“We have heard all kinds of grammar about the economy,” she said. “Past governments made beautiful promises, yet the suffering continues. We were told blatant lies and deceived.”

She added that corruption remains widespread and questioned the absence of meaningful programmes for youths, widows and other vulnerable groups, asking pointedly, “Is this the way to make progress?”

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