The Labour Party’s 2023 governorship candidate, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, has criticized the economic reforms implemented by the current administration, accusing the government of benefiting only a select group of people. Rhodes-Vivour, in a recent interview on Channels Television, raised concerns about the impact of President Bola Tinubu’s policies, such as the removal of fuel subsidies and the floatation of the Naira, on the everyday Nigerian.
While the government has defended its reforms, vowing to sustain them despite the challenges, Rhodes-Vivour argued that the majority of Nigerians are enduring extreme hardship. According to him, over 70% of the average Nigerian’s income is now spent on basic needs like transportation and food, leaving little room for other expenses such as housing.
The people are experiencing unprecedented hardship, Rhodes-Vivour said. They’ve not even started to think about how they can afford accommodation. He went on to emphasize what he views as a culture of wastefulness and extravagance within the government, which he claims stands in stark contrast to the dire economic situation the country is facing.
The governorship candidate further pointed out that the only people seemingly benefiting from these reforms are government officials, bankers, and President Tinubu’s associates. How many Nigerians can say they are benefitting from any reform right now? he queried.
The economic situation in Nigeria has been worsening, with inflation reaching new highs following the removal of the fuel subsidy and the Naira’s floatation. Many Nigerians have expressed frustration over the rising cost of living, and Rhodes Vivour’s comments reflect growing dissatisfaction with the government’s handling of the economy.
As the country grapples with these challenges, Rhodes Vivour called for greater accountability from those in power and urged that the welfare of the majority of Nigerians should be prioritized.