The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) has raised concerns about the current state of affairs in the country as Nigeria celebrates its 64th Independence Day today, October 1.

The group mentioned that Nigeria, which used to be a symbol of national pride and unity, now passes with faint enthusiasm.

It has been observed that many Nigerians are currently not in a celebratory mood due to the harsh economic realities.

The country is currently facing difficult times, as Nigerians struggle for their daily needs amid inflation, fuel price hikes, and an increase in food prices, among other crises.

The national secretary of the coalition, Peter Ameh, said in a statement that the, “64th anniversary serves as a stark reminder of unfulfilled promises. It’s time for introspection, collective responsibility, and decisive action. The nation yearns for transformative leadership, effective governance, and renewed commitment to progress.

“Hunger and poverty have become unwelcome companions to millions. Basic necessities like rice and garri, staples in Nigerian cuisine, are now luxuries.

“A bag of rice, once affordable, now strains family budgets. Garri, a cassava-based staple, has become a rare delight. The price of a bottle of groundnut, a fundamental cooking ingredient and staple food, has skyrocketed to ₦2,500, exacerbating the struggles of the common man.

“The economic downturn has eroded the sense of national pride. Citizens are preoccupied with survival, leaving little room for patriotic sentiment. The festivities, once filled with hope and promise, now serve as painful reminders of unfulfilled expectations.

“The celebrations are tempered by the harsh realities of a nation struggling to fulfill its potential. Successive governments have failed to deliver on promises, leaving the country mired in poverty, insecurity, and stagnation.”

Listing some of the country’s economic problems, the coalition noted the following, “Leadership Incompetence: Lack of visionary leadership has plagued Nigeria, with leaders prioritizing personal interests over national progress.

“Corruption: Endemic corruption has siphoned resources, undermining development initiatives.

“Poor Governance: Ineffective institutions and policies have hindered economic growth and social development.

“Rising inflation: Prices soar, rendering basic necessities unaffordable, and unemployment: Millions lack stable income, exacerbating poverty.

“Currency fluctuations: The naira’s devaluation fuels price hikes.

“Widespread poverty: Millions struggle to make ends meet; over 80 million Nigerians live below the poverty line.

“Malnutrition: Hunger and inadequate nutrition threaten public health.

Desperation: Citizens become vulnerable to crime and social vices.

“Insecurity: Boko Haram, banditry, and kidnapping threaten national stability.

Infrastructure decay: Roads, healthcare, and education suffer from chronic underfunding.

“Brain drain: Talent flees to seek opportunities abroad.

“‘Hungry man, angry man’ aptly describes Nigeria’s situation. Citizens are frustrated, disillusioned, and increasingly desperate.”