Nigerian Opposition Blames President Tinubu for ‘Rewarding’ Mismanaging Governors
An opposition figure in Nigeria, Salihu Lukman, has criticized President Bola Tinubu for reportedly “rewarding” state governors who mismanage public funds and divert resources for personal use. Lukman, a former national vice chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), aired his views on Channels Television’s Sunrise Daily program.
Nigerians have been protesting against soaring inflation, hunger, and increasing living costs since Tinubu assumed office two years ago. Economic analysts attribute these challenges to the government’s removal of petrol subsidies and unification of foreign exchange windows. Meanwhile, the United States Embassy in Nigeria reported instances of governors spending billions on renovating government houses, despite widespread economic hardship. The embassy warned that such actions fuel inequality and erode public trust.
While urging governors to focus on poverty eradication and good governance, Tinubu has faced criticism for allegedly not ensuring they adhere to their responsibilities. Lukman told Channels Television, “What the president can do is to ensure that governors do what they need to do. But what I see him doing is to reward them for doing the wrong things.”
Lukman, now a member of the opposition coalition floated on the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), lamented the arrogance and lack of accountability of governors, both from the APC and opposition parties, due to their control over party structures. He argued that the APC has been more focused on admitting opposition governors into its fold without implementing measures to hold them accountable to the people who elected them.
Lukman further criticized the APC’s leadership, stating that it betrayed the trust of party members. He expressed hope that the ADC, as a coalition, would learn from the APC’s mistakes and, if given the chance to produce the next president, would ensure that leaders are accountable to the party and its manifesto promises.
The ADC chieftain’s comments highlight ongoing skepticism surrounding the government’s handling of the economy and its relationship with state governors. As Nigeria approaches the 2027 presidential election, political pressure is mounting to address these concerns and ensure accountability in governance.
