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In a strongly worded open letter addressed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, a Nigerian mother and civic advocate, Chief (Mrs.) Ifeyinwa Arafat Ezenwa — popularly known as Ijele Nwanyi Igbo Nile — has called on the President to remember the democratic struggles of his past and act decisively to end what she described as “a growing wave of injustice” under his administration.

The letter, titled “An Open Message to His Excellency, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR,” revisits President Tinubu’s historic role as one of the courageous figures who stood up to military dictatorship during the National Democratic Coalition (NADECO) era. Chief Ezenwa’s message appeals to his conscience, urging him not to betray the democratic ideals he once fought for.

“You were one of the few brave voices who dared to speak out against injustice,” she wrote. “You and many others were falsely accused, harassed, and hunted with baseless allegations — just to silence dissent. As the saying goes, ‘to name a dog a bad name in order to hang it.’”

Recalling his years in exile, she noted that President Tinubu’s personal sacrifices were not forgotten. “When the pressure became unbearable, you went into exile, not as a fugitive, but as a freedom fighter. From outside the country, you continued to speak boldly, promising that upon your return, you would dedicate yourself to the defense of justice, freedom, and democratic governance in Nigeria,” she reminded him.

Chief Ezenwa lamented that the same patterns of repression that Tinubu once opposed have resurfaced, this time under his watch as President. “Today, Your Excellency, many of the same injustices you fought against are happening again — under your administration,” she wrote. “Peaceful protesters are being detained unlawfully, many without charge, without court orders, and without access to legal representation. This is unacceptable in a democratic society.”

She argued that such actions “directly contradict the spirit of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” citing Section 40 of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and association. Quoting the section, she reminded the President:

“Every person shall be entitled to assemble freely and associate with other persons, and in particular may form or belong to any political party, trade union or any other association for the protection of his interests.”

The open letter underscores the moral obligation of leadership to protect civil liberties, particularly the rights of young Nigerians seeking a better future. Chief Ezenwa emphasized, “Sir, this is the very right that protected your voice in the past. It is now your duty to protect the voices of others — especially the youth, who are only demanding a better Nigeria.”

In a passionate appeal, she urged the President to demonstrate leadership consistent with his democratic history. “If we truly believe in democracy, then we must be consistent — both in word and in action,” she declared.

Chief Ezenwa outlined three urgent actions for the President:

“Order the immediate release of all peaceful protesters being held in detention.”

“Instruct the relevant authorities to cease all illegal arrests of citizens expressing their rights.”

“Uphold and protect the constitutional rights of all Nigerians, without bias or suppression.”

Her message closes with a poignant reminder of Tinubu’s legacy and the expectations of the Nigerian people. “Nigeria watched you rise as a symbol of resistance and hope. Do not let that legacy be stained by silence or indifference,” she cautioned.

Chief Ezenwa concluded with an emotional plea: “We stood by you in faith. Now we ask you to stand by us — with justice.”

The open letter has since been circulating widely on social and traditional media, resonating with civic groups, human rights advocates, and ordinary Nigerians who have expressed concerns over recent reports of clampdowns on peaceful demonstrations across parts of the country.

Observers see Chief Ezenwa’s message as both a moral reminder and a call to conscience for President Tinubu to reaffirm his commitment to democracy — the very principle that once defined his political journey.

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