Atiku Abubakar criticizes Tinubu's economic policies, citing IMF report and hardship
via Punch Nigeria3 min read
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has criticized President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, stating that recent findings by the International Monetary Fund IMF confirm the severe hardship faced by Nigerians. Abubakar described the current economic situation as "organised hardship dressed up as reform," attributing it to policy inconsistencies, weak leadership, and a disconnect from the realities of ordinary citizens. In a statement by his Senior Special Assistant on Public Communication, Phrank Shaibu, Abubakar said the IMF report merely echoes what Nigerians have long experienced. He argued that while government officials focus on macroeconomic indicators, citizens are struggling with diminishing purchasing power and increasing living costs, with wages becoming worthless and markets filled with unaffordable goods. Abubakar lamented that despite rising global oil prices, many Nigerians are falling deeper into poverty due to soaring food prices, high transportation costs, exchange rate instability, and a depreciating currency. He highlighted that parents are withdrawing children from school, farmers are abandoning land due to violence, and small businesses are collapsing under high electricity tariffs, taxes, and a suffocating business environment. Abubakar warned that the country faces a crisis eroding citizens' dignity, stating that the administration has turned sacrifice into a one-way street where people suffer while the government lectures. He also raised concerns abou
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The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Akeem Owoade, has directed the Aare Ona Kakanfo of Yorubaland, Iba Gani Adams, to initiate broad consultations with traditional rulers, community leaders, and other stakeholders to address the increasing insecurity in the region. This directive, issued in a statement by Ademola Adeniyi, the Director of Culture and Public Relations for Oba Owoade, aims to establish community-driven support systems that will enhance formal security structures, particularly in intelligence sharing and early warning mechanisms. The monarch emphasized that these measures must align with the Nigerian constitution and lawful security operations. The call for action follows recent security incidents, including the killing of five National Park Service officers at Old Oyo National Park on January 6, 2026, the deaths of four farmers in Igboho, and the abduction of a nursing mother and her child in Ondo State. The Alaafin also urged authorities to maintain transparent communication with affected communities to prevent panic, build trust, and strengthen coordinated responses. The palace reiterated its commitment to collaborating with all stakeholders to restore safety and stability across affected areas.
Sam Adeyemi, Senior Pastor of DayStar Christian Centre, has urged Nigerians to advocate for a national discussion focused on economic growth. In a statement issued in Lagos, Adeyemi emphasized that a properly convened national dialogue would enable citizens, leaders, and stakeholders to agree on a common vision for building a functional and developed economy. He stressed that electoral processes alone cannot guarantee meaningful development without alignment with long-term national goals, warning that recurring elections without clear direction would continue to fall short of expectations. Adeyemi highlighted that while elections are important, they must be supported by strong institutional frameworks and clearly articulated objectives. He described Nigeria's current condition as troubling, citing hardship and insecurity as indicators of deeper structural failures. He also noted that without a shared national direction, changes in leadership alone would not produce different results. Adeyemi pointed to the potential contributions of Nigerians in the diaspora, suggesting their exposure to working systems abroad could offer practical insights for national development. He also cautioned against "cultural cowardice," urging citizens to reject limiting beliefs and embrace responsibility in shaping the country's future. Adeyemi called for comprehensive reforms, including a review of foundational governance frameworks, stating that national development is a shared responsibility whe
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has appealed to the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board JAMB to reschedule examinations for eight UTME candidates who were among 15 passengers kidnapped last Wednesday night. The governor made this appeal while hosting the rescued victims at Government House, Makurdi, describing them as "victims of circumstance." The abduction occurred between Taraku and Otukpo in Gwer East and Otukpo Local Government Areas. All 13 remaining kidnapped victims have since been rescued by security agents. Governor Alia directed the State Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr. Paul Ogwuche, to ensure the victims receive medical examination and treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital. He also commended the Inspector General of Police, Olatunji Disu, and other security agencies for their efforts, confirming that seven suspects have been arrested. One of the kidnapped UTME candidates, Jessica Akor, recounted her ordeal, stating that the abductors demanded a N10 million ransom per person and threatened to kill them if it was not paid. Akor's account contradicts a previous statement from JAMB denying that any of its candidates were among those abducted. She detailed how the bus was intercepted by armed men near Otukpo around 8 p.m. on Wednesday, and they were taken into the bush, subjected to long walks, and given gari mixed with salt when hungry. The state Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, confirmed the rescue, stating that the
Must ReadThe Joint Revenue Board JRB, led by Executive Secretary Mr Segun Adesokan, has announced a partnership with the Nigerian Police Force to tackle illegal tax collection and dismantle unauthorized roadblocks used for this purpose nationwide. Mr Adesokan highlighted the JRB's mandate to ensure uniform, transparent, and efficient revenue administration, aligning with President Bola Tinubu's tax reforms aimed at promoting fairness and economic growth. These reforms prohibit illegal tax practices that burden businesses and citizens, particularly along transport routes. The JRB had previously banned roadblocks for tax collection and the use of unauthorized tax stickers in December 2023. A Model Harmonised Taxes and Levies Act, passed by 15 State Houses of Assembly, criminalizes cash-based tax collection, illegal roadblocks, and the involvement of non-state actors in revenue collection on public roads. Mr Adesokan stated that these unlawful practices harass citizens and increase the cost of goods and services. To address this, the JRB proposes a joint national task force with the Nigerian Police Force to identify, dismantle, and prosecute illegal tax operators across all states. Mr Mohammed Abdul Suleiman, mni/DIG Finance and Administration, representing the Inspector General of Police, welcomed the initiative, affirming the Police Force's commitment to supporting the JRB and ensuring Commissioners of Police collaborate to eliminate this issue. Both institutions will develop an implem