October 1: Rice, garri, others now luxuries, no enthusiasm - CUPP cries out

The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has said it has observed that October 1, Nigeria's Independence Day, which used to be a symbol of national pride and unity, now passes with faint enthusiasm.

The coalition pointed to the harsh economic realities as the reason for the stifled excitement, as many Nigerians have been left indifferent.

It noted that this year's celebration has again come at a time when the country's struggles for everyday life overshadow patriotic fervor.

In a statement signed by its national secretary, Peter Ameh, the coalition noted that the "64th anniversary serves as a stark reminder of unfulfilled promises. It's time for introspection, collective responsibility, and decisive action. The nation yearns for transformative leadership, effective governance, and a renewed commitment to progress.

"Hunger and poverty have become unwelcome companions to millions. Basic necessities like rice and garri, staples in Nigerian cuisine, are now luxuries.

"A bag of rice, once affordable, now strains family budgets. Garri, a cassava-based staple, has become a rare delight. The price of a bottle of groundnut, a fundamental cooking ingredient and staple food, has skyrocketed to ₦2,500, exacerbating the struggles of the common man.

"The economic downturn has eroded the sense of national pride. Citizens are preoccupied with survival, leaving little room for patriotic sentiment. The festivities, once filled with hope and promise, now serve as painful reminders of unfulfilled expectations.

"The celebrations are tempered by the harsh realities of a nation struggling to fulfill its potential. Successive governments have failed to deliver on promises, leaving the country mired in poverty, insecurity, and stagnation."

It noted that the economic woes the country's economy struggles with are multifaceted and include: "Leadership Incompetence: Lack of visionary leadership has plagued Nigeria, with leaders prioritizing personal interests over national progress.

"Corruption: Endemic corruption has siphoned resources, undermining development initiatives.

"Poor Governance: Ineffective institutions and policies have hindered economic growth and social development.

"Rising inflation: Prices soar, rendering basic necessities unaffordable, and unemployment: Millions lack stable income, exacerbating poverty.

"Currency fluctuations: The Naira's devaluation fuels price hikes."

CUPP noted that the economic hardship has far-reaching consequences and has impacted the lives of millions of our citizens negatively. "Widespread poverty: Millions struggle to make ends meet; over 80 million Nigerians live below the poverty line.

"Malnutrition: Hunger and inadequate nutrition threaten public health, and desperation: Citizens become vulnerable to crime and social vices.

"Insecurity: Boko Haram, banditry, and kidnapping threaten national stability, and infrastructure decay: Roads, healthcare, and education suffer from chronic underfunding.

"Brain drain: Talent flees to seek opportunities abroad.

"'Hungry man, angry man' aptly describes Nigeria's situation. Citizens are frustrated, disillusioned, and increasingly desperate."