Tinubu’s flyover fury: Why is Mr. President mad?, By Adeola Akinremi

Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has publicly expressed strong disapproval of state governors, accusing them of financial mismanagement and prioritizing vanity projects over essential services. Speaking to traditional rulers from Oyo State, including Oba Rashidi Ladoja, the Olubadan of Ibadanland, Tinubu urged citizens nationwide to hold their governors accountable for performance and resource allocation.

Tinubu's frustration, which he described as "flyover fury," stems from the perception that many states are not effectively utilizing the substantial federal funds they receive. He pointed out that states now receive four to five times more federal allocations than they did when he and Ladoja served as governors over two decades ago. This increased funding, he argued, negates any fiscal excuses governors might offer for poor performance. The president specifically criticized the construction of "flyovers where there is no numeric traffic," suggesting these projects are wasteful and lack justification.

The president's call for scrutiny is a departure from typical political discourse, inviting citizens to look beyond the federal capital and examine governance at the state level. He emphasized that transparency should be a policy, not just a fleeting gesture during elections. This focus on accountability aims to shift power dynamics, placing citizens above politics and demanding audits of state finances.

Despite increased federal allocations, the daily lives of millions of Nigerians remain challenging. Impassable roads hinder the transport of farm produce, primary healthcare centers lack basic equipment and personnel, and public schools continue to deteriorate. Rural communities suffer from insecurity due to poor access roads, and emergency services, including ambulances, are often unavailable. Water systems fail, drainage collapses, and youth unemployment remains critically high.

Tinubu's message underscores a critical need for governance that prioritizes systemic improvements for ordinary citizens over monumental self-aggrandizement. He suggested that a road enabling efficient produce transport could generate more economic value than an expensive interchange built in an underutilized area. Similarly, a functional primary health center is presented as more vital than a ceremonial commission, highlighting a call for practical, impactful governance.

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stop building flyovers where there is no numeric traffic.