Tinubu Administration Inherited Economic Hardship from Buhari – Emir of Minna

The Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Farouk Bahago, has attributed the current economic challenges facing Nigeria to the policies inherited from the administration of former President Muhammadu Buhari. He made this statement during a sensitisation event on federal government intervention programmes, organised by the Ministry of Information and National Orientation in Minna, Niger State.

Represented by Alhaji Maikudi Achaza, the Hadinin Minna, the emir praised President Bola Tinubu’s government for its efforts in tackling corruption and implementing reforms aimed at alleviating economic hardship. He noted that many citizens remain unaware of these initiatives due to a lack of effective communication, especially in local languages.

“A significant amount of funds was misappropriated by previous administrations, and the current government is working to recover them. Since the removal of fuel subsidies, various measures have been introduced to mitigate the impact on citizens, but better communication of these policies is crucial,” said the Emir.

Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar, also voiced concern over the increasing hardships faced by Nigerians. Speaking from his Hilltop Residence in Minna, during a courtesy visit from officials of the Campaign for Democracy and Human Rights, Abdulsalami called on the Tinubu administration to take urgent steps to address the economic challenges.

“The hardship in the country is spiraling out of control,” Abdulsalami remarked. “Many citizens are struggling to afford basic necessities due to soaring transportation costs, fuel prices, and rising school fees. The government must do more than distribute palliatives; they need to provide sustainable solutions.”

Abdulsalami suggested that instead of relying on short-term relief measures, the government should consider more long-lasting solutions, such as selling food at subsidised rates to help citizens cope with the rising cost of living.

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, represented by Asabe Sule Garba, also spoke at the event. He reiterated the government’s commitment to transparency and accountability, stressing the need for citizens to support the government’s efforts.

As economic conditions worsen, Abdulsalami urged Nigerians to maintain peace during the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protests on October 1, 2024, and called on the government to address citizens’ grievances seriously.

The visit ended with Abdullahi Jabi, chairman of the civil society organisation, urging Abdulsalami to play a more active role in mobilising citizens for greater participation in governance, while appealing to the government for more decisive action to alleviate the country’s economic crisis.