Former Senator representing Kaduna Central, Shehu Sani, has remarked that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu will likely remain unpopular among Nigerians until the outcomes of his reform policies begin to yield visible and positive results.
Speaking during an interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Sani noted that the current administration is treading a path that, while necessary, might not immediately appeal to the general populace due to its tough policy choices.
“President Tinubu is embarking on a difficult journey—one that prioritizes long-term national interest over short-term popularity,” Sani stated. “A leader can either implement popular policies to satisfy the masses or take bold, sometimes unpopular, steps that may cost votes but are vital for the country’s future.”
He also highlighted what he described as a shift in the political climate under Tinubu’s leadership, particularly in terms of tolerance for criticism.
“Even people from the South West, the president’s region, are free to criticize him openly. That’s something we didn’t witness under the last administration,” Sani said, referencing the perceived lack of open dissent during former President Muhammadu Buhari’s tenure.
Drawing from his own experience in the Senate, Sani reflected on the challenges of speaking out against issues such as insecurity, poverty, and out-of-school children in the northern region during Buhari’s time in office.
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“When I raised concerns about the killings and social issues in the North, I faced resistance, especially from fellow Northern lawmakers. There was a strong sentiment that you shouldn’t criticize the president if he came from your region,” he recalled.
Sani emphasized that President Tinubu’s willingness to endure unpopularity in pursuit of national reform could redefine political leadership in Nigeria—provided the policies eventually lead to measurable progress.
