Some concerned Nigerians have called on the Federal Government to urgently retrace its steps, warning that lies, deceit and corruption cannot improve the welfare of citizens or rescue the country from its deepening crises.
The citizens shared their frustrations yesterday as Vanguard sampled opinions on the state of the nation, touching on insecurity, governance failures and the daily struggles faced by ordinary Nigerians.
For Nze Peter Chika Odoemena, life in Nigeria has gradually lost its value. He lamented the recurring killings across the country, describing them as endless massacres that no longer shock authorities.
“We have been grappling with the killing of innocent people for years, yet we behave as if nothing is happening,” he said. “Just this new year, over 40 Nigerians were reportedly murdered in a market attack. This kind of news only fuels fear, uncertainty and displacement.”
Odoemena questioned why Nigerians should become refugees in their own country or why schools are forced to shut down because of the activities of non-state actors. He also faulted the government’s repeated claims of having enough manpower and equipment to defeat terrorism.
“Lies, deceit and corruption, no matter how small, cannot improve citizens’ welfare. The Federal Government must always remember this,” he stressed.
Another respondent, Jonathan Chiedo Ikegwuruka, said Nigeria has witnessed more politics than actual governance. He expressed frustration over government statistics that claim improvements in citizens’ welfare.
“We are tired of hearing figures. We are told things are better, but are they really?” he asked. “How can there be food security when farmers are afraid to go to their farms? How can anyone say we are progressing when roads to rural communities are death traps?”
Ikegwuruka also decried the collapse of public utilities, noting that Nigerians still struggle with unreliable electricity and access to clean water.
“Almost every household now has a borehole because government no longer prioritises potable water. Nobody seems concerned about the environmental or health impact. People drink whatever water they find,” he added.
Mrs Stella Ogechi Omenka echoed similar concerns, saying the country is facing serious challenges that cannot be ignored.
“We have heard all kinds of grammar about the economy. Every government makes sweet promises, yet the suffering continues,” she said. “We were told lies, deceived and possibly cajoled into believing things would change.”
She added that corruption remains widespread and questioned the absence of meaningful programmes for youths, widows and other vulnerable groups.
“I don’t see real plans to support our people. Is this how progress is supposed to look?” she asked.
The voices reflect growing public frustration, as many Nigerians demand honesty, accountability and genuine governance instead of rhetoric.
