Prominent Ijaw leader and human rights activist, Chief Sheriff Mulade, PhD, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and state governors to prioritise accountability and people-focused governance in 2026.
DDM gathered that Mulade made the call in a New Year message delivered from Okerenkoko in Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State.
Mulade, who is the Ibe-Serimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom, said Nigeria is passing through one of its most challenging economic periods in recent history.
He stressed that rising hardship across the country requires leadership that is inclusive, compassionate, and responsive to the needs of ordinary citizens.
The Ijaw leader noted that accountability must remain the cornerstone of governance at both federal and state levels.
Mulade said leaders must ensure that public resources are used transparently and for the direct benefit of the people.
He argued that Nigerians are increasingly demanding results rather than promises from those entrusted with power.
According to him, economic reforms without people-centred implementation risk deepening public frustration.
Mulade specifically called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement policies that will ease the economic burden on citizens.
He said inflation, unemployment, and the rising cost of living have placed enormous pressure on Nigerian families.
The Ijaw leader urged the federal government to strengthen social safety nets for vulnerable populations.
He emphasized that economic policies should be designed to protect the poor while stimulating sustainable growth.
Mulade said restoring public trust requires visible action rather than political rhetoric.
He added that accountability would encourage citizens to support government initiatives even in difficult times.
The human rights activist also urged state governors to adopt governance models that prioritise people over politics.
He said governors must listen more closely to grassroots concerns and respond decisively.
Mulade noted that many local communities feel disconnected from government decision-making processes.
He argued that inclusive governance promotes unity and reduces social tension across the country.
The Ijaw leader commended Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for ongoing infrastructural development in the state.
He acknowledged improvements in road construction and public infrastructure under the Oborevwori administration.
Mulade, however, urged the governor to pay special attention to riverine Ijaw and Itsekiri communities.
He said these areas have historically suffered neglect despite contributing significantly to the state’s economy.
According to him, development must not be concentrated only in urban centres.
Mulade stressed that extending infrastructure and social services to riverine communities will foster inclusion.
He said inclusive development strengthens community cooperation and mutual trust.
The Ijaw leader warned that neglecting marginalised communities could threaten long-term peace in the Niger Delta.
He noted that the region’s history shows that exclusion often fuels unrest.
Mulade emphasized that sustainable peace can only be achieved through fairness and equity.
He called on leaders to see development as a tool for conflict prevention.
The Ibe-Serimowei of Gbaramatu Kingdom said the Niger Delta remains critical to Nigeria’s economic survival.
He urged both federal and state governments to prioritise the welfare of oil-producing communities.
Mulade said meaningful engagement with host communities is essential for national stability.
He added that accountability in governance would also improve investor confidence.
According to him, economic relief measures must be implemented with sincerity and urgency.
Mulade said Nigerians are eager for policies that directly improve their daily lives.
He stressed that leadership in 2026 must be guided by empathy, responsibility, and transparency.
The Ijaw leader concluded by calling on political leaders to make the new year a turning point for good governance.
He urged President Tinubu and state governors to align their actions with the hopes and expectations of Nigerians.
Mulade said history will judge leaders by how they respond to citizens’ suffering.
He expressed optimism that accountable leadership can restore national confidence and unity.
The New Year message reflects growing public demand for transparent governance and economic relief.
Observers say such calls highlight increasing pressure on leaders to deliver people-centred policies.
Mulade’s message reinforces the need for unity, inclusion, accountability, and compassion in Nigeria’s governance journey.
