Tinubu’s Policies Causing More Hardship in the North – Arewa Consultative Forum

By Samaila Emmanuel Bzugu

The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has criticized President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, stating that they have exacerbated hardship in Northern Nigeria. The forum attributed the economic woes to the president’s decision to remove fuel subsidies and liberalize exchange rates.

The removal of fuel subsidies has particularly affected the North, where many rely on fuel for transportation, power, and essential services. The savings generated from phasing out subsidies were intended to compensate people for inflationary impacts and transition to a more sustainable economy, but the implementation has been criticized for lacking transparency and failing to provide adequate support to those most affected.

Inflation has surged to 34.19 percent, exceeding 40 percent for food, plunging millions of Nigerians into poverty

Inflation has surged to 34.19 percent, exceeding 40 percent for food, plunging millions of Nigerians into poverty. Over 80 percent of Nigerians live in poverty, struggling to afford basic necessities.

The Arewa Economic Forum has called for a reversal of the subsidy removal policy, citing persistent hardship and economic struggles in the region. Critics argue that the government’s spending priorities demonstrate a disconnect from the struggles of ordinary Nigerians.

the government’s handling of economic policies, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability

ACF’s Secretary-General, Murtala Aliyu, expressed concerns about the government’s handling of economic policies, emphasizing the need for transparency and accountability. “The government must prioritize the welfare of its citizens, especially during times of economic hardship,” Aliyu said.

The situation highlights the need for policies addressing economic rights and social welfare, ensuring that economic reforms prioritize the needs of all Nigerians, particularly the most vulnerable populations.

Read Also: