Former PDP spokesman Kola Ologbondiyan criticizes the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira, claiming the policies have brought Nigeria to its knees economically.
Kola Ologbondiyan, the former spokesperson for the Peoples Democratic Party, has criticized the Bola Tinubu administration for eliminating the fuel subsidy and allowing the naira to float. He argues that these decisions have severely impacted the country negatively.
Olodiyan, speaking as a special guest on Channels Television’s “The Morning Brief” on Monday, stated that Tinubu would have implemented a gradual removal of the petrol subsidy and offered measures like reduced public transportation fares instead of providing subsidized rice for the masses.
His position came after the PDP governors’ meeting over the weekend, during which they urged President Tinubu to implement economic reforms.
They rescheduled the National Executive Council meeting for February 2025.
In essence, I, Kola Ologbodiyan, align myself with the principles established by the party’s original founders.
For example, consider the issue of subsidy removal. Nigeria’s current challenges have largely stemmed from two significant decisions made by President Bola Tinubu, especially regarding the subsidy and the elimination of the naira.
In the past, under PDP leadership, we experienced a gradual removal of subsidies that included palliatives. However, the APC has suggested that Nigerians purchase rice at N40,000 per bag. It’s important to recognize that Nigerian needs extend beyond just rice. I think policies could be improved by implementing a public transportation system where everyone can travel without having to drive their own vehicles and enjoy subsidized rates.
However, the unfortunate reality we’re witnessing today is that we, even as PDP members, are merely paying lip service to engaging with the current government’s reforms and proposing alternatives.
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Following the removal of the petrol subsidy, prices for Premium Motor Spirit have increased significantly from an average of N189 per litre shortly after President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023 to over N1000 per litre recently.
Regarding the reforms advocated by the PDP governors at their weekend meeting, Ologbodiyan highlighted tax reform as an initiative being led by the party.
“I understand they have been strong advocates for tax reforms. Nevertheless, as you and I are aware, the economic situation is quite disheartening. Many people currently struggle to afford basic necessities like food.”
Bala Mohammed, the chairman of the forum and governor of Bauchi State, reiterated on Saturday during his opening remarks at the meeting that the party is dedicated to delivering good governance to citizens through its elected governors.
He stressed the PDP’s unity and its standing as a resilient political party that provides Nigerians with hope and effective governance.
We are currently on the Plateau, and Governor Mutfwang has demonstrated that it truly serves as a melting pot where everyone feels welcome.
Mohammed emphasized, “The PDP is a united and inseparable party. Although there are minor challenges, all organs and leaders within the party remain aligned. We are committed to collaborating in order to offer Nigerians improved governance opportunities.”
