Renowned human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, SAN, has issued a strong warning to the Nigerian government and the political elite, urging them not to push citizens to the point of mutiny. 

Falana’s caution comes in the wake of recent military coups in African nations, including Gabon and Niger. 

He expressed his concerns during the National Symposium organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), where he spoke on the theme: “Nigeria Economy and the Crisis of Survival: Robbing the Poor to Pay the Rich.”

Falana highlighted the growing discontent among Nigerians due to the economic challenges facing the country. 

He criticized the government for imposing economic hardships on the poor while public officials continue to indulge in extravagant spending. 

He linked the trend of military takeovers in Africa to several factors, including the exploitation of mineral resources by Western countries, manipulation of constitutions, third-term syndromes, and the presence of foreign military bases in African nations.

The human rights advocate emphasized the need for caution, especially when figures of extravagant spending by the National Assembly surface. 

Falana expressed concern over the allocation of funds for various projects, such as a reported 54 billion Naira earmarked for constituency projects for House of Representatives members, despite the austere economic conditions faced by the country.

Falana stated, “So when these figures are oozing out of the National Assembly, Nigerians are being provoked and enemies of democracy are being provoked.”

He also shed light on the grievances within the military regarding the preferential treatment of foreign troops stationed in African countries, sparking protests from soldiers. 

Falana urged a thorough examination of the causes of military coups, including the exploitation of African mineral resources by foreign powers and the worsening economic conditions for the people.

Falana called for prudence and cautioned that democracy is under threat in Africa, emphasizing the need for accountability, responsible governance, and consideration for the challenges faced by the citizens.