President Bola Tinubu’s recent media chat has sparked strong criticism from opposition leaders, including former presidential candidates Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and Senator Rabiu Kwankwaso of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), among others.
Atiku, speaking through his media adviser, Paul Ibe, condemned the President’s announcement of plans to continue borrowing funds for infrastructure projects. He criticized the administration for what he described as “borrowing without purpose,” claiming that the government had failed to demonstrate any improvement in the economy or security since Tinubu assumed office.
Atiku stated, “Nothing has changed ever since he became President. The economy and security are not better. They are being reckless with the nation’s resources.” He further questioned the effectiveness of borrowing to finance infrastructure when the government had yet to show tangible results, particularly amid the ongoing economic struggles that have left many Nigerians in hardship.
Senator Kwankwaso echoed similar concerns, with the NNPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Ladipo Johnson, criticizing the administration’s failure to address the growing economic difficulties faced by citizens. Johnson pointed to the recent national budget, highlighting continued borrowing and the acquisition of non-essential vehicles, which he argued showed a lack of seriousness in managing public funds. He called on the government to make genuine efforts to cut costs, especially when Nigerians are being urged to tighten their belts.
Meanwhile, the Labour Party’s National Legal Adviser, Kehinde Edun, criticized Tinubu’s stance on the removal of fuel subsidies, describing it as a “faux pas.” He expressed doubts over the President’s commitment to retaining his cabinet, suggesting that changes would be made eventually. Edun also labeled the fuel subsidy removal as a policy that has brought significant suffering to Nigerians, calling it “bravado” in the face of widespread hardship.
The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) also weighed in, denouncing the administration’s approach to borrowing. CUPP’s National Publicity Secretary, Mark Adebayo, pointed out what he saw as a lack of financial discipline in the government, criticizing the purchase of extravagant items such as a presidential jet and vehicles for the presidential convoy. According to Adebayo, these actions demonstrate the administration’s disconnect from the economic realities faced by ordinary Nigerians.
The PDP also joined the chorus of criticism, accusing the Tinubu administration of insensitivity to the suffering of Nigerians. The party’s National Publicity Secretary, Debo Ologunagba, expressed concern that the government had failed to account for savings from the removal of fuel subsidies, despite the severe economic challenges citizens are enduring. The PDP emphasized that the government’s failure to secure the nation’s borders has also contributed to rising costs, as smuggled petroleum products continue to enter neighboring countries, further burdening the Nigerian economy.
With Christmas approaching, opposition parties have warned that many Nigerians will face their toughest holiday season yet. PDP Deputy National Youth Leader, Timothy Osadolor, stated that the Tinubu government’s policies have exacerbated hunger and insecurity, making it difficult for families to afford necessities. Osadolor accused the administration of prioritizing self-enrichment over the well-being of the people.
The NNPP’s Ladipo Johnson and CUPP’s Mark Adebayo also expressed concerns about the hardships that will mark this festive season, including rising food and transportation costs. They called for a reconsideration of government policies to alleviate the suffering of the populace.
In conclusion, opposition leaders are urging the Tinubu administration to reassess its economic policies, particularly in light of the widespread poverty and economic instability in the country. Despite these criticisms, the government has remained resolute in its stance, with no indication of reversing its policies on fuel subsidy removal or borrowing for infrastructure development.
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