Atiku’s subsidy reversal plan’ll let Nigerians breathe – Nwosu

Ralph Nwosu, former national chairman of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has criticized President Bola Tinubu's decision to remove fuel subsidies, arguing that the move has left many Nigerians struggling financially. Speaking on The Morning Show, an Arise TV programme, Nwosu defended the ADC's presidential candidate, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who has pledged to reintroduce the subsidy policy if elected. Nwosu claimed that the current administration has failed to provide effective governance since 2023. Nwosu highlighted the impact of the removal of fuel subsidies on ordinary citizens, particularly civil servants who are unable to afford transportation costs. He described scenes at motor parks where civil servants are forced to sleep due to financial constraints. According to him, these conditions indicate that the country is not being properly governed. He emphasized that policies should be evaluated based on their effects on the population rather than theoretical discussions. The former ADC leader stressed that leadership should focus on the well-being of the people rather than cosmetic changes or technological advancements. He argued that motivated individuals are essential for economic productivity and that the ADC aims to create a productive economy where all levels of society benefit. Nwosu mentioned ongoing research into the effects of current policies, noting that the situation in motor parks reflects broader issues affecting the populace. He further explained that the ADC's approach involves thorough testing and evaluation of policies before implementation. This process ensures that any new policy aligns with the organization's core principle of prioritizing the welfare of Nigerians. Nwosu expressed confidence that once the ADC takes office, there will be continuous monitoring and assessment of implemented policies to ensure they meet the needs of the people. According to Nwosu, Atiku's commitment to reversing the subsidy removal demonstrates bold leadership aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians. He believes that allowing people to breathe economically will lead to increased collaboration between citizens and the government, ultimately enhancing production and economic outcomes. In contrast, he criticized the current administration for its perceived recklessness and lack of effective governance. Nwosu pointed out that visiting hospitals reveals the extent of suffering among Nigerians, suggesting that the current government's actions have not led to improvements in public health or overall quality of life. He urged a shift towards policies that genuinely address the needs of the population, emphasizing that true leadership involves understanding and responding to the challenges faced by everyday citizens.