The Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOTiON), a non-governmental organisation, has called on Nigerians to confront the government over the effects of poor governance, particularly insecurity, inadequate infrastructure, and neglect of basic social services.
The group made this call during a community engagement visit to Gaube, Kuje Area Council of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), over the weekend, as part of activities ahead of its official launch in October.
Speaking during the visit, MOTiON member, Mr. Abdullahi Bilal, highlighted the dire conditions in the community, including deplorable road networks and the collapse of the local healthcare centre into what he described as a “mere consulting clinic.” He lamented that residents often travel long distances to Kuje to access medical care, resulting in avoidable loss of lives.
Bilal further criticised the poor state of education and basic amenities in the FCT, noting that if conditions in communities within the seat of power were this poor, rural areas across Nigeria would likely be in worse situations. He assured residents that MOTiON would, on October 17, 2025, launch a citizen-driven platform to empower communities to hold leaders accountable.
“The primary responsibility of government is to provide security and improve the welfare of the people. Sadly, what we see here in Gaube tells a different story,” he said.
Community representatives also voiced their frustrations. Mr. Tekula Matthew, a Gaube resident, decried the lack of motorable roads, which has crippled economic activities by making it difficult to move farm produce to markets. He added that over 40 villages in the Gaube Ward remain underdeveloped due to poor infrastructure, inadequate health facilities, and insecurity.
“Our farmers are suffering due to clashes with herders. Government must provide clear grazing boundaries and strengthen rural security,” he said.
Other residents echoed similar concerns, stressing the need for urgent government intervention in infrastructure, healthcare, education, and security.
MOTiON pledged to work with the community as “change agents” to demand better governance, stressing that only an active citizenry can compel leaders to fulfil their obligations.
