Philip Nyam 
The immediate past Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology, Hon. Dachung Musa Bagos has commended President Tinubu for acceding to the voice of reasoning and addressing the nation.
Bagos, who was among those who urged the president to address the nation before the commencement of the nationwide protests acknowledged the president’s efforts to communicate with Nigerians on the country’s challenges and progress.
The former lawmaker representing Jos South/Jos East Federal Constituency of Plateau, however, emphasised the need for the president to give a clear timeline on when Nigerians should expect tangible improvements in their lives, especially the widespread hunger.
He said “While we appreciate the president for finally listening to the calls of some of us to address the nation, this is just one aspect of the demands. We urge the president to provide a specific roadmap with timelines for achieving the promised reforms and improvements.
“Nigerian people are eager to see concrete results from the administration’s efforts. A clear timeline will help build trust and confidence in the government’s ability to deliver on its promises,” Bagos stated.
The one-time Deputy Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Anti-Corruption advised the president to consider short term measures to ameliorate the biting effects of fuel subsidy removal while he works towards the long term goals of resetting the oil and gas sector.
“Although the president has reiterated that the decision to remove petroleum subsidy was painful but necessary, he should ensure that adequate measures are put in place to mitigate the pains because as it is today, the pains are excruciating and indeed unbearable.
“Mr President, something must be done to mitigate transportation cost, increasing food prices and general astronomical rise in the standard of living.
“While you pursue your enumerated reforms, be mindful of the fact that Nigerians have to live to enjoy the benefits of your reforms when they start to yield dividends.
“So, consider concrete policies apart from what you outlined in your address”.
Bagos also called for the compensation of the families of those killed by security agencies during the protests as well those whose businesses were destroyed and vandalized adding that the government must take responsibility.
