Isaac Chukwuebuka ChibuifeBy Isaac Chukwuebuka Chibuife
The Federal Government has cautioned Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, against making critical comments that ridicule the efforts and policies undertaken by President Bola Tinubu to reform and strengthen the economy.
In a recent press statement signed by the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, the Edo governor was advised to display greater statesmanship in this post-election period, rather than resorting to scathing remarks that serve no national purpose.
The call by the Minister is in response to Governor Obaseki’s recent comments about the national economy, particularly the fuel subsidy removal.
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Obaseki taunted the Tinubu-led administration, saying he was shocked about the government’s inability to plan and effectively respond to the fuel subsidy removal. The governor also criticised the Federal Government’s palliative plan, describing it as “fraudulent.”
He also criticised the high exchange rate, saying that the poor vulnerable ones would feel the current economic hardship more.
Reacting to that, the Information Minister said Governor Obaseki shifted his focus to national economic challenges as a means of diverting attention from his perceived underperformance at the state level since joining the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
He noted that differences in opinions among leaders are common, especially in a democratic setting but criticisms should align with “factual results and basing discussions on tangible outcomes.”
Continuing the minister said: “Governor Obaseki’s recent comments on the decisions of the APC-led Federal Government particularly concerning fuel subsidy and foreign exchange market reforms are analyzed in the context of the broader economic landscape.”
The minister pointed out that a consensus exists among Nigerians, state governors across party lines, global institutions such as the World Bank and IMF and economic experts on the need for the removal of fuel subsidy due to its adverse effects on the economy.
He said that the bold decision of President Tinubu to remove the fuel subsidy has led to an increase in monthly fiscal allocations to states and local governments, at least in the last two months (June and July) which Obaseki is a beneficiary.
He added that it is strange that Obaseki should resort to criticising the Federal Government in such a manner even when he as a governor, is a member of the national economic council where far-reaching economic decisions are made.
The Minister urged Obaseki to focus on how the Edo State Government can utilize available resources for impactful projects that uplift the people of his state.
Idris hailed the economic decisions led by President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing their role in reshaping the national economy for better performance.
He further underscored the need for leaders at all levels to collaborate for the greater good of the country, urging a shift away from cheap politics.
He recalled President Tinubu’s call that with the elections over, the nation has transitioned from politicking to a period of serious governance in order to build a stronger, more prosperous Nigeria.
As the nation navigates challenging times, the expressed optimism of a positive future under the leadership of President Tinubu, where cooperation and genuine governance take precedence.
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