BENIN CITY- Outspoken Governor of Edo State, Godwin Obaseki, voiced his concern and disappointment over the Federal Government’s ineffective management and response to the impact of the fuel subsidy removal policy. Obaseki stated that the poorly executed policy has plunged Nigerians into a deeper state of poverty, causing increased hardship and suffering.
In a press briefing in Benin City, Obaseki expressed his exasperation over the current state of Nigeria’s economy, which he claims is deteriorating due to the central government’s mismanagement and poor policy decisions.
The governor revealed, “I have consistently cautioned Nigerians, even on last May Day, that our old economic model has become obsolete. We need to formulate a new economic framework and stop fooling ourselves.”
He continued, “The subsidy removal and exchange rate alignment signify the end of the era of free money. Unfortunately, the most vulnerable and weakest in our society will bear the brunt of these policy changes.”
Obaseki was surprised that those who had propagated the removal of subsidies across the nation had no concrete plans for managing the aftermath. He expressed his fear over the government’s seeming lack of a plan to cushion the negative effects of the policy.
Obaseki also predicted that Nigerians will have to grapple with inflation rates between 20 and 25 per cent due to the mismanagement of the economy. This, he said, will inflict more pain on the weaker sections of society, including pensioners, whose pensions will not be able to adequately cover their needs.
The Governor reassured the people of Edo, pledging his government’s commitment to their welfare. He stated: “We in Edo will not forsake you. We prefer the term ‘support’ over ‘palliative’, as we plan to assist those who have become victims of this policy.”
SOURCE: The Guardian
IMAGE: wplg local10
