In a scathing statement released yesterday, the Pan Yoruba Socio-cultural organization, Afenifere, expressed strong criticism of the policies implemented by President Bola Tinubu during his first two months in office. The organization particularly condemned the abrupt removal of subsidy on petrol, which led to an alarming increase in pump prices, as well as the proposed distribution of cash palliatives to households across Nigeria.
The statement titled “On Petrol Subsidy, Insensitive Policies and State of Governance in Nigeria: Afenifere Speaks for the People” was made available to journalists in Akure by Afenifere’s Secretary-General, Sola Ebiseni, on Friday.
Afenifere conveyed its concerns about the adverse effects of the recent economic decisions on the already struggling Nigerian populace. The removal of petrol subsidy resulted in a sudden surge in pump prices from N537 to N617 and beyond in inner states, exacerbating the hardships faced by citizens who were already grappling with hyperinflation, unemployment, and mass hunger.
The organization further lamented the lack of timely and comprehensive palliative measures to shield the citizens from the negative impacts of subsidy removal. Afenifere criticized the government’s failure to introduce countervailing palliatives alongside the subsidy removal, leaving many vulnerable Nigerians further impoverished.
According to Afenifere, the hasty implementation of the subsidy removal and the subsequent economic consequences have pushed Nigeria’s economy to the brink. The country now officially holds the unenviable title of “The New Poverty Capital of the World,” overtaking India in terms of poverty levels.
The organization acknowledged the need for reform in the management of the subsidy regime, which had been riddled with corruption and lack of transparency. However, it expressed disappointment in the lack of foresight displayed by the government in not adequately preparing for the aftermath of subsidy removal.
Afenifere called for a comprehensive review of the cost of governance in Nigeria, advocating for an end to wasteful spending on unnecessary agencies and exorbitant salaries and allowances for public officials. The organization demanded that the government lead by example by cutting down on extravagant perks and implementing prudence in financial management.
Furthermore, the socio-cultural group raised concerns about the social misery index reaching an all-time high, leading to heightened tensions and potential mass unrest if the current level of hardship is not addressed promptly and effectively.
In conclusion, Afenifere called for a thorough investigation into corruption within the oil industry and the proper allocation of public funds. It urged the government to implement sustainable palliative measures that would alleviate the suffering of the Nigerian masses across the country.
As the nation faces the challenges of a convoluted election process and security issues, Afenifere asserted its commitment to advocating for the welfare of Nigerians and ensuring that their voices are heard in the face of adverse policies and governance.