Shehu Sani, a civil rights activist and former senator representingivil rights activist and former senator Shehu Sani has urged for another round of EndSARS protests, claiming that the lessons from the 2020 demonstrations against police brutality remain unaddressed. CONTINUE READING

Speaking at a memorial lecture in Lagos, Sani identified credible elections, security, and quality education as essential elements for Nigeria’s progress. However, he lamented that all three areas are severely lacking.

**Credible Elections**

“Without a credible electoral system that produces legitimate leaders, we will continue to face challenges,” Sani stressed. “The faulty system and process by which people attain positions of power is a major obstacle.”

**Security Crisis**

“In Kaduna, where I come from, a significant portion of the state is controlled by bandits and terrorists,” Sani said. “Schools and farms are unsafe, and people are forced to pay ransoms to access their property.”

“The government is trying its best, but the situation remains dire. Schools are being attacked, and students and parents are suffering immensely,” he added.

**Education in Crisis**

“Once upon a time, the people in power today benefited from public education,” Sani noted. “But now, they cannot send their own children to the same schools they attended.”

“Private education is the only option for quality education, and that is simply not accessible to all Nigerians,” he said.

**Restructuring Debate**

Sani questioned why advocates of restructuring lose interest in the issue once they gain political power. He highlighted that even basic steps, such as granting autonomy to state legislatures, judiciaries, and local governments, have proven elusive.

“We talk about devolution of power and restructuring, but when people get into office, their priorities change,” Sani remarked. “They know that their lives could be at risk if they challenge the state governor.”

“The APC’s campaign manifesto promised restructuring, but they have not delivered,” he added. “If you have the power and the ideas, why not act on them?”

Sani concluded by stating that Nigeria has long been aware of its problems and solutions, but political power often leads to inaction. He urged for continued dialogue and pressure to address the nation’s challenges. CONTINUE READING