Nigeria in Pain: Tinubu, It’s Time to Make That Call to Peter Obi, Emir Sanusi, Kemi Badenoch, and Buhari – There Is No Shame in Asking for Guidance, by John Egbeazien Oshodi

As a psychologist observing the Nigerian socio-political landscape, I cannot ignore the profound psychological, social, and systemic implications of our nation’s current state. The images of children scavenging refuse dumps and mothers digging through garbage for food are not just the results of economic hardship—they are symptoms of a collective national trauma. These realities, left unaddressed, will scar generations and erode the very fabric of our society. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is at a pivotal crossroads, and the path it chooses will determine whether Nigeria rises from this crisis or descends further into despair. At this critical juncture, Tinubu must reject his administration’s combative arrogance and embrace the wisdom of listening to critics such as Peter Obi, Emir Sanusi, Kemi Badenoch, and former President Muhammadu Buhari.

The Psychological Toll of Neglect

The hardship endured by children and mothers is not merely a matter of survival; it is a direct assault on their psychological well-being. Children like Jacob Olorunfemi and Yekini Salam, aged ten and eleven, respectively, are being robbed of their innocence and forced into a survival mentality far too early. Scavenging through refuse dumps, they collect scraps to sell for meager sums. Their dreams—education, security, and growth—are shattered under the weight of societal neglect. These children are not just victims of poverty; they are the casualties of a system that has failed to provide them with even the most basic opportunities.

For mothers scavenging in market garbage heaps, the experience is one of profound humiliation and despair. These women, once nurturers and providers, are now reduced to searching through rotting waste for spoiled peppers and potatoes to feed their families. Psychologically, this shift from dignity to desperation breeds shame, anxiety, and long-term trauma. The cycle of poverty, compounded by systemic neglect, perpetuates feelings of helplessness and resentment—emotions that can simmer into collective unrest if ignored.

The Role of Leadership in National Trauma

Leadership is not merely about policies and governance; it is about shaping the collective psyche of a nation. In times of crisis, a leader must act as a healer, acknowledging the pain of their people and working tirelessly to restore their dignity. However, Tinubu’s administration has largely responded to criticism with hostility, rejecting voices of dissent and doubling down on a dismissive, combative approach. This behavior reflects a deeper psychological phenomenon within the leadership itself—an inability to confront vulnerability and accept accountability.

As a psychologist, I recognize that this defensive posture is often rooted in fear—the fear of admitting failure, the fear of appearing weak, and the fear of losing control. Yet, true leadership requires the courage to face these fears, to listen to critics, and to take responsibility for mistakes. Tinubu must step out of the shadow of ego and embrace humility as a pathway to redemption.

The Voices Tinubu Must Hear

Rejecting criticism is not a strategy; it is a dangerous delusion. Tinubu must actively seek the counsel of critics and allies who offer valuable perspectives:

Peter Obi: A former governor with a proven track record has consistently emphasized the need for transparency, fiscal responsibility, and sustainable development. His insights could provide Tinubu with actionable strategies to address unemployment, infrastructure decay, and economic inequality.

Emir Sanusi: As a respected economist and former Central Bank Governor, Sanusi has repeatedly called out fiscal mismanagement and systemic inefficiencies. His experience navigating complex economic challenges makes him an invaluable voice in crafting policies that promote stability and growth.

Kemi Badenoch: A rising global political figure with Nigerian heritage, Badenoch brings an international perspective that could help reposition Nigeria on the global stage. Her insights into governance, innovation, and diaspora engagement could provide Tinubu with a roadmap for restoring Nigeria’s reputation and leveraging its vast potential.

Former President Muhammadu Buhari: While his tenure was controversial, Buhari’s experience in governance cannot be dismissed. He offers a unique perspective on the challenges of leading Nigeria and lessons that Tinubu could use to avoid repeating past mistakes.

The Psychological Value of Listening

Listening is not merely a political act; it is a psychological intervention. When leaders actively engage with critics and acknowledge the concerns of their people, they foster a sense of validation and hope. This process not only rebuilds trust but also mitigates the collective anxiety and despair that arise in times of crisis. By rejecting defensiveness and embracing constructive dialogue, Tinubu can model a leadership style that prioritizes empathy and collaboration over arrogance and divisiveness.

What Listening Looks Like in Action

Public Acknowledgment of the Crisis: Tinubu must admit the gravity of Nigeria’s current challenges. This includes addressing the plight of children forced into scavenging and mothers reduced to digging through waste. Acknowledgment is the first step in healing and signals that the leadership is attuned to the struggles of its citizens.

Engaging Critics in Meaningful Dialogue: Tinubu should personally invite Peter Obi, Emir Sanusi, Kemi Badenoch, and Muhammadu Buhari to a roundtable discussion. This act of humility would demonstrate a willingness to listen and learn, fostering a collaborative approach to governance.

Tinubu, these advisers are not helping you or Nigeria by responding to criticism with insults and division. Felix Morka, Bayo Onanuga, Temitope Ajayi, and Sunday Dare have caused unnecessary resentment with their dismissive and combative rhetoric. This behavior reflects poorly on your administration and undermines your leadership. It’s important to address this now and ensure that criticism is met with respect and constructive dialogue, not hostility.

While I don’t think critics like Peter Obi, Emir Sanusi, and Kemi Badenoch should be overly harsh on your administration, that’s not the point here. You need their insights, their perspectives, and their critique to navigate the challenges Nigeria faces. Instead of dismissing them, reach out. Engage with Peter Obi, Emir Sanusi, Kemi Badenoch, and former President Buhari. Their experience and wisdom can provide valuable guidance during this critical time. Leadership is about listening, learning, and taking action—not defensiveness. By opening the door to constructive conversations, you can take a significant step toward rebuilding trust and delivering meaningful solutions for Nigeria.

Listening without action is an empty gesture, and for Tinubu, the stakes demand more than words. He must prioritize bold and tangible reforms that address the root causes of Nigeria’s challenges—poverty, educational inequality, and economic instability. This means overhauling the public education system to make it accessible and effective for all, ensuring that no child is denied the opportunity to learn. It requires implementing targeted social welfare programs modeled after successful systems in other countries, such as quick vouchers for emergency housing, rent assistance, and food security programs similar to food stamps. Health care must be accessible and free for a defined period for those in need, reducing the burden on vulnerable families. Providing free bus passes for low-income individuals can ensure mobility and access to opportunities like jobs and education. Vocational training, job placement programs, and support for small businesses must also be prioritized to create sustainable pathways out of poverty. The government must also collaborate with banks to relax stringent requirements for opening accounts, enabling the unbanked and underprivileged to access financial services, save money, and participate in the economy. Moreover, targeted assistance must extend to the elderly, who are often forgotten in times of crisis. Pension support, subsidized healthcare, free transportation, and community services tailored to their needs would offer dignity and security in their later years. Emergency relief measures, including temporary cash assistance and subsidized childcare, would address immediate needs while building a framework for long-term stability. These comprehensive reforms are lifelines that can restore hope, rebuild trust, and lay the foundation for a resilient and equitable Nigeria.

The Consequences of Ignoring Dissent

Refusing to listen to critics is not just a political misstep—it is a moral failure. The cost of Tinubu’s inaction will be borne by the most vulnerable: the children scavenging for scraps, the mothers digging through garbage, and the millions of Nigerians struggling to survive. Left unchecked, this neglect will fuel resentment, social unrest, and a deepening sense of hopelessness. As a psychologist, I can attest to the long-term consequences of such widespread despair—it breeds cycles of poverty, crime, and systemic dysfunction that become increasingly difficult to break.

A Call to Redemption

Tinubu’s leadership is at a crossroads. He has the opportunity to transform his administration from one characterized by defensiveness and neglect into one defined by humility, empathy, and action. The voices of Peter Obi, Emir Sanusi, Kemi Badenoch, and Muhammadu Buhari are not threats—they are lifelines. Listening to them is not a sign of weakness but a demonstration of strength, wisdom, and vision.

The Nation’s Hope for Healing

The streets of Nigeria are filled with children scavenging for survival and mothers searching through filth for scraps. This is the reality of Tinubu’s leadership. The question is not whether he can change this narrative—the question is whether he will. The time for excuses has passed. The time for bold, empathetic leadership is now. Nigeria’s future—and Tinubu’s legacy—depend on his ability to listen, learn, and lead. The nation’s hope for healing lies in his hands.

Professor John Egbeazien Oshodi, born in Uromi, Edo State, Nigeria, is a Nigerian-American psychologist, educator, and author renowned for his expertise in cross-cultural psychology, forensic/clinical psychology, police/prison science and social justice. He is the son of a father who served in the Nigeria Police Force for 37 years. Professor Oshodi has held teaching appointments at several institutions, including Florida Memorial University, Florida International University, Broward College, Nexus International University, and Nova Southeastern University. He played a key role in introducing state-of-the-art forensic psychology into Nigeria in 2011 through N.U.C. and Nasarawa State University, where he served in the Department of Psychology.

Professor Oshodi is a government consultant for forensic-clinical psychological services for both adults and children in the USA. He currently practices as a clinical and forensic psychologist. He holds virtual faculty roles at Walden University, Weldios University, and ISCOM University.

He has authored academic publications, including books, and written hundreds of public opinion pieces on African issues. His expertise lies in psycho-prescriptive writings on African institutional and governance challenges. Professor Oshodi is also the founder of the Psychoafricalysis theory in psychology, a pioneering contribution to the field. He is a former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Psychological Association (NPA). His work continues to inspire scholars, practitioners, and policymakers worldwide.