NNPP chieftain slams FG’s extravagance amidst economic hardship

Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, a prominent good governance advocate and populist politician, has criticised President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its extravagant spending amidst widespread hunger and suffering among the masses.

Ajadi, a Southwest chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), voiced his concerns in a release on Sunday, 4 August 2024. He described the president’s actions as insensitive to the plight of the people.

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Highlighting the allocation of N21 billion for the renovation of the Vice President’s residence and another N70bn for luxury SUVs for National Assembly members, Ajadi labelled these expenditures as examples of fiscal irresponsibility. He argued that even if such provisions were planned, the prevailing economic situation in the country should have guided the president towards more prudent decisions.

“I find it unacceptable that a president elected to cater to the welfare of the people could approve such staggering amounts for projects that do not have a direct bearing on the masses’ improved welfare. Elected Nigerian officials already have a level of comfort; it is the masses, the common people who are suffering stress in the economy. The president should have prioritised welfare programmes or people-policies ahead of everything else,” Ajadi stated.

As Nigeria grapples with rising hunger and unemployment, many citizens are questioning the promises made by President Tinubu during his campaign. The removal of fuel subsidies, which Tinubu once criticised as corrupt under former President Goodluck Jonathan, has further exacerbated the situation. Despite the subsidy removal, the promised improvements have not materialised, leading to increased frustration among Nigerians.

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Ajadi highlighted the stark contrast between Tinubu’s campaign promises and the current realities. He criticised the lack of transparency in government spending and called for greater accountability in the management of public funds. Ajadi also referenced a viral video where President Tinubu criticised Jonathan’s regime, emphasising the need for tangible actions to address the economic challenges.

Making reference to President Tinubu’s nationwide broadcast on the ongoing hunger strike, Ajadi expressed disappointment. He described the president’s address as reactionary and failing to make tangible promises that addressed the issues.

“The president should engage the youths issue by issue, not merely appeal for them to stop protesting. I am deeply saddened by the unrest in some states and the tragic loss of lives. This is welcome, but after that, what next?” Ajadi rhetorically queried.

Ajadi acknowledged the government’s efforts at stabilising the economy but expressed scepticism regarding its commitment to delivering on those promises. “The best way for the government to show seriousness to those affirmations is by action,” he said.

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Ajadi, who called for direct support to help people overcome current economic hardships, also referenced another viral video showing a member of the House of Representatives proposing salary reductions for the president, vice president, and members of the House of Representatives. The member argued that this measure is necessary to prevent the ongoing protests from escalating.

Addressing the Speaker of the House, the member urged that the president, vice president, ministers, governors, and all members of the National Assembly should take a salary cut. He argued that this would help provide short-term relief to curb hunger and economic hardships.

“If we do so, Nigerians will decline the protest,” the member of the House of Representatives stated.