In a recent statement that can only be described as detached from reality, Mrs. Remi Tinubu, wife of Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu, claimed that her husband is not responsible for the current economic hardship gripping the nation. This assertion is not only misleading but also demonstrates a dangerous lack of accountability at the highest levels of government.
Let's be clear: President Tinubu's policies have undeniably exacerbated Nigeria's economic woes. Since taking office:
1. The Naira has plummeted from N465/$ to N1,700/$, a devastating 70% devaluation.
2. Petrol prices have skyrocketed from N187/litre to above N1,000/litre.
3. Inflation has surged from 22.4% to 32.15%.
4. 13,346 Nigerians have been killed and 9,207 abducted, highlighting a severe security crisis.
These are not mere coincidences but direct consequences of the administration's economic policies and governance approach.
Mrs. Tinubu's attempt to shift blame away from her husband is particularly galling given the Tinubus' well-documented support for the previous administration. Both she and President Tinubu boasted repeatedly about their role in bringing the Buhari government to power and sustaining it in office. Tinubu himself promised on the campaign trail to continue his predecessor's policies. The current administration cannot now conveniently distance itself from the economic mess it helped create and promised to perpetuate.
Mrs. Tinubu's assertion that Nigeria will be "greater" in two years rings hollow in the face of the current economic data and trends. Our analysis shows that without a dramatic shift in economic policy, the situation is likely to worsen, not improve. The removal of fuel subsidies was implemented without adequate safeguards for the most vulnerable Nigerians. The floating of the Naira has led to its freefall rather than the promised stability and investment influx.
Instead of making excuses, the Tinubu administration needs to acknowledge its role in the current crisis and take immediate, concrete steps to address it. This includes:
1. Implementing targeted economic reforms to stabilize the Naira and control inflation.
2. Addressing the root causes of insecurity, which is hampering economic growth and investment.
3. Developing a comprehensive strategy to combat poverty and hunger, which have reached alarming levels.
4. Improving transparency and accountability in government to rebuild public trust. Details of suggested solutions are found here: https://dsh.re/fd27b6
Mrs. Tinubu's comments are a disservice to the millions of Nigerians struggling under the weight of the consequences of her husband’s economic policies. The Nigerian people deserve leaders who take responsibility for their actions and decisions, not those who deflect blame when faced with the consequences of their actions or inaction. It's time for the Tinubu administration to face reality, own up to its mistakes, and work tirelessly to right the ship of state. The future of Nigeria depends on it.