Afe Babalola, founder of Afe Babalola University (ABUAD) in Ado-Ekiti, Ekiti State, has expressed strong reservations about the Federal Government’s approach to distributing palliatives, labeling it a strategy to create a culture of dependency and beggary among Nigerians.
During a visit by the Prestige Sisters League to ABUAD, Babalola emphasized that the government must ensure the welfare of its citizens. He argued that the current palliative distribution system, which involves handing out basic food items like garri, beans, and rice, is misguided and ultimately detrimental to the nation’s progress.
“The government is turning people into beggars,” Babalola said. “Instead of providing a conducive environment for people to work and feed themselves, the government is discouraging hard work and promoting dependency.”
Babalola also weighed in on the ongoing debate about Nigeria’s constitution, advocating for the reinstatement of the 1963 constitution. He suggested that the National Assembly should simply re-enact the existing document, rather than convene a constitutional conference.
“I agree with the Patriots who visited President Tinubu that we need a new constitution,” Babalola said. “However, I believe the 1963 constitution, which was crafted by Nigerians, should be re-enacted by the National Assembly. This approach would be more efficient and effective than holding a constitutional conference.”
Babalola’s comments reflect his concern about the country’s current state and his desire to see meaningful change. He emphasized that the government must prioritize creating an enabling environment for citizens to thrive, rather than relying on short-term palliatives that do not address the root causes of poverty and inequality.
