Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Farouk Bahago has said that the current economic challenges faced by Nigerians were inherited from the Buhari administration.
He made this assertion during a sensitisation event on federal government intervention programmes organised by the Office of the Minister of Information and National Orientation, held in Minna, Niger State.
Represented by the Hadinin Minna, Alhaji Maikudi Achaza, the emir commended President Bola Tinubu for his efforts to address the issues stemming from past corruption. He emphasised that many citizens remain unaware of the Tinubu administration’s initiatives due to insufficient communication from government spokespersons, particularly in local languages.
On the other hand, former Head of State General Abdulsalami Abubakar has expressed concern over the escalating hardships faced by Nigerians, urging the President Bola Tinubu-led federal government to take immediate action to alleviate the suffering of citizens.
The emir said, “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 implemented to alleviate the impact on citizens. It is crucial for the government to communicate its policies and programmes effectively, using local languages.”
The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, represented by Asabe Sule Garba, Zonal Coordinator of the Federal Information Resource Centre in Minna, stated that the event is aimed to raise awareness about the federal government’s efforts to deliver the dividends of democracy to the people. He highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to accountability and transparency and called for citizens’ support.
Meanwhile, the ex-military leader criticised the distribution of palliatives, saying they were not a solution to the rising cost of living. He emphasised that leaders have failed to connect with ordinary citizens and understand their struggles, noting that life is becoming increasingly difficult for many.
Abdulsalami made these remarks at his Hilltop Residence during a courtesy visit from officials of the Campaign for Democracy and Human Rights, a Minna-based civil society organisation.
The organisation urged him to appeal to the Tinubu-led administration to address the current economic challenges in the country.
“The hardship in the country is spiraling out of control,” Abdulsalami lamented. “Every citizen is crying, and the situation worsens daily. Many can no longer afford three square meals due to high transportation costs, increased fuel prices, rising school fees and a lack of financial resources.”
He reassured on his commitment as a former leader to encourage federal, state and local governments to address these pressing challenges swiftly.
Abdulsalami revealed that a forum he participated in had proposed solutions to the federal government, arguing that palliative measures are inadequate. “Instead, the government should buy food and sell it at reduced prices to help citizens afford essential items,” he suggested.
On the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protests planned for October 1, 2024, General Abdulsalami urged Nigerians to remain peaceful and reminded the government not to take citizens for granted.
Earlier, Abdullahi Jabi, chairman of the civil society organisation, called for Abdulsalami’s intervention in implementing programmes aimed at mobilising Nigerians for active participation in governance.
