Yoruba Ronu cautions President over stringent economic policies
A stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo State, Olumuyiwa Adu, at the weekend, appealed to President Bola Tinubu to take decisive action in reducing the cost of governance in Nigeria.
According to him, the high earnings of political appointees have been an impediment to effective management of the country’s treasury and economy.
Adu, who spoke with newsmen in Akure, the state capital, expressed concern over the current system, which he claimed, benefited only a small circle of political elite and neglected the welfare of the people.
The retired military personnel and legal practitioner said that Tinubu, having expressed commitment to advancing the nation’s economy, should be prepared to address the issue of excessive expenditure and wastefulness that hinder the country’s development.
He said if the excessive earnings of political appointees are curbed, more resources could be allocated towards critical sectors, such as infrastructure, healthcare and education.
Besides, he said the measures would not only demonstrate a commitment to effective management of the nation’s resources but would also foster public trust and confidence in government’s ability to address the pressing needs of the people.
He said: “Except we sit down and think about the allocation of our wealth in this country and distribution of our resources, we can never get it right. If they like, let them give N50,000 to every family in this country, we can’t get out of the problem.”
ALSO, a South-West socio-political body, Yoruba Ronu Leadership Forum, yesterday, faulted the Federal Government’s decision of putting more money at the disposal of state agents, saying that it is a very risky economic policy that could spell doom for the growth and development of the nation.
In a telephone discussion, President of the forum, Akin Malaolu, said: “Following the windfall of about N2 trillion accrued from the removed fuel subsidy and scrapping of free tuition fees, among other taxes, we have seen the economic recovery path that President Tinubu wishes to follow, which is public sector driven.
“Over the years, governors and council chairmen have not shown their desire to utilise resources for developmental purposes.”
He also said that insecurity is still pervasive, whereas low understanding of what democracy is all about is evident.
Malaolu also warned Nigerians against taking seriously the pledge made by Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum (PGF), Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State that they (governors) would ensure effective utilisation of extra funds, following removal of fuel subsidy.
