Economic hardship: Tinubu needs encouragement, not criticism – Oyintiloye
Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, a prominent member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun State, has called on Nigerians to offer support to President Bola Tinubu during the current economic challenges facing the nation, rather than subjecting him to harsh criticism.
Speaking with journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, Oyintiloye emphasized that President Tinubu is dedicated to improving the economic situation in Nigeria. He acknowledged the difficulties that many citizens are experiencing but argued that the president should not bear the brunt of the blame for the country’s economic troubles.
“The President needs the support and understanding of Nigerians as he works to address the situation,” Oyintiloye stated.
He pointed out that the Tinubu administration has initiated key economic reforms, including the removal of the petrol subsidy and the floating of the naira, with the aim of stabilizing the economy and enhancing its future prospects. While he recognized that these policies have placed additional burdens on Nigerians, he described them as necessary steps that could yield positive outcomes if effectively implemented.
“Although the policies are tough, they are necessary and have begun to yield positive results,” Oyintiloye continued. “What the President needs at this point is our encouragement, not harsh criticism or name-calling.”
He further noted that the challenges inherited by Tinubu upon taking office were significant, and the president has been actively working to address the economic crisis since then. Oyintiloye stressed that Nigerians should remember that the president is not solely responsible for the economic issues currently faced by the country and that these problems cannot be resolved overnight.
In light of the upcoming 2027 presidential election, Oyintiloye urged opposition politicians not to exploit the prevailing economic difficulties for political gain. He asserted that based on their past performances, none of the opposition candidates would be likely to outperform the current administration.
“It would, therefore, be unwise to weaponize the current economic challenges against his presidential ambition,” he stated.
Despite his support for the president, Oyintiloye urged Tinubu to intensify efforts to alleviate the hardships faced by Nigerians. He noted that many citizens continue to suffer despite the government’s economic initiatives and recommended a review of existing social intervention programs targeting vulnerable populations, along with enhanced economic policies aimed at reducing burdens.
“The government must continue to look for ways to ease the hardship being experienced by the masses,” he said.
Looking ahead, Oyintiloye expressed confidence that Tinubu would secure a significant victory in the 2027 presidential election, citing what he described as the administration’s achievements across various sectors. He encouraged Nigerians to continue praying for the president and supporting his efforts to advance the nation.
