LP and Atiku Respond to Tinubu’s Statement on Poverty

• The Labour Party criticized President Tinubu for his recent remarks, calling them a mockery of Nigeria’s impoverished citizens
• Atiku Abubakar’s camp echoed the criticism, citing Tinubu’s policies as exacerbating poverty through fiscal irresponsibility and lack of planning

The Labour Party (LP) has expressed disappointment with President Bola Tinubu’s recent remarks, describing them as a mockery of Nigeria’s impoverished population.

Obiora Ifoh, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, voiced discontent in a conversation with Vanguard in Abuja. He emphasized that President Tinubu was elected to alleviate poverty, not exacerbate it, criticizing the administration’s policies for intensifying economic hardship since assuming office over a year ago.

“It was disheartening to hear Mr. President mock his citizens by suggesting Nigerians are not alone in poverty,” Ifoh stated. He highlighted the adverse impacts of harsh economic policies on the populace, questioning the administration’s priorities amidst lavish expenditures.

“Our schools and health institutions are in dire straits, yet the government claims it cannot afford a living wage for public servants while prioritizing luxury,” Ifoh added, urging President Tinubu to prioritize the security and welfare of the people as mandated by the constitution.

Similarly, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, speaking through his Special Adviser, Paul Ibe, echoed criticisms of Tinubu’s administration. He cited an African proverb, suggesting that leadership sets the tone for governance.

“Atiku emphasized that Tinubu’s policies have exacerbated poverty through a lack of strategic planning and fiscal irresponsibility,” Ibe remarked. He criticized the administration’s handling of subsidy payments, alleging discrepancies between official claims and actual expenditures.

“The reality of deepening poverty in Nigeria is evident,” Ibe asserted, calling for transparent and accountable governance to address the nation’s multifaceted challenges.

LP and Atiku’s camp underscored the urgency for effective policies prioritising economic productivity and alleviating poverty rather than exacerbating it.