The Presidency has called on former Vice President Atiku Abubakar to recognize and commend the reforms implemented by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, rather than engaging in political mudslinging.
In a statement on Sunday, Bayo Onanuga, the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, addressed the ongoing exchanges between the Presidency and Abubakar. The former vice president had recently shared his thoughts on addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges, sparking a heated debate.
Onanuga dismissed Abubakar’s remarks as lacking substance, accusing him of offering “harebrained propositions devoid of realistic alternatives.”
Onanuga emphasized the dire economic situation inherited by Tinubu’s administration, citing years of mismanagement and unsustainable subsidy expenses. He highlighted that: By mid-2023, the landing cost of fuel ranged between ₦500 and ₦600, yet it was sold for an average of ₦200. The 2023 budget allocated ₦3.36 trillion for subsidies, while oil revenue was projected at just ₦2.23 trillion.
“The Nigerian state was on life support,” Onanuga remarked, underscoring the urgency of the reforms.Federal Inland Revenue Service collections nearly doubled in the first half of 2024 compared to 2023, boosting funds for states and councils. Many states have increased their minimum wage to between ₦70,000 and ₦85,000.
Onanuga dismissed Abubakar’s call to privatize Nigeria’s four refineries, labeling it an unoriginal idea that fails to address the country’s energy needs. He argued that Tinubu’s decisive reforms present a more sustainable solution.
The statement concluded with Onanuga urging Abubakar to rebuild his reputation as a statesman by recognizing the progress made under Tinubu’s leadership, rather than undermining it.
