In a scathing criticism of the current administration, Nigerian Senator Neda Imasuen has expressed his strong disapproval of the government’s policies, particularly the removal of the petrol subsidy and the unification of forex windows. Speaking on Channels Television’s Inside Sources, the Labour Party (LP) senator and Chairman of the Senate Committee on Ethics, Privileges, and Public Petitions, emphasized that Nigerians, especially the middle class, are bearing the brunt of the administration’s reforms.
Citing the crippling effects of the measures on the economy, Imasuen passionately argued that the policies are causing undue suffering among Nigerians. “The steps that are being taken, I’m afraid that the suffering that Nigerians are going through right now is too much of a price to pay for it,” he lamented.
The senator pointed out that Nigeria’s reliance on imports, coupled with the devaluation of its currency, the naira, is fuelling the country’s economic woes. “Everything is tied to the dollar, and the dollar keeps going up. We need to develop our industries,” he urged. Imasuen advocated for strengthening small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and giving the middle class the opportunity to thrive.
Imasuen also chimed in on the contentious issue of subsidy, stressing that every country, particularly in the agricultural sector, provides some form of subsidy. He highlighted the alarming rise in food prices, noting that many Nigerians can no longer afford to buy a bag of rice, which now costs approximately N100,000 (approximately $200 USD).
While acknowledging the legislature’s limited role in supporting the executive, Imasuen called for a collaborative approach to address the country’s problems rather than resorting to finger-pointing. He emphasized that this is a critical moment for Nigeria, requiring stakeholders to work together to find solutions to the nation’s pressing challenges.
The senator’s comments reflect the growing discontent among Nigerians over the government’s economic policies, which many believe are exacerbating the country’s difficulties rather than alleviating them. As the Tinubu administration continues to implement its reforms, it remains to be seen whether the government will reconsider its policies in light of mounting criticism from lawmakers and citizens alike.
