President Tinubu’s speech failed to address Nigeria’s challenges – Ajadi
Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, the chieftain of the New Nigeria People’s Party, has slammed President Bola Tinubu’s administration over extravagance amid hunger and the masses’ suffering.
Ajadi voiced the criticism in a release on Sunday, August 4, 2024. He described the president’s attitude as insensitive to the people’s plight.
He particularly highlighted the allocation of N21 billion for the renovation of the Vice President’s residence and another 70 billion Naira expenditure on luxury SUVs for National Assembly members as examples of fiscal irresponsibility.
According to him, even if such provisions were duly provided for in the books, the prevailing economic situation in the country should have advised the presidency and those in ruling offices better.
Ambassador Ajadi referenced a viral video where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu criticized Jonathan’s regime:
“Those who have the power to improve our situation for the good of all of us instead choose to make things better for themselves, their comfort, and their families. Cronyism prevails. Today, our rulers in Abuja removed the subsidy despite our protests. As hunger increases, their response is indifference: ‘So what.’ When we point out that unemployment is a cause, they acknowledge it but do nothing. When asked why people are hungry, they heartlessly say, ‘Let them face death.’
“We have had enough of excuses. Our people have had enough of having nothing. Refineries are not functioning, and the electricity supply is unreliable. They are stealing from our children’s future by failing to provide a good education. They continue to embezzle the retirement funds of hardworking Nigerians.”
He further mentioned another viral video showing a member of the House of Representatives proposing that the salaries of the president, vice president, and members of the House of Representatives should be reduced. He emphasized 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.