Subsidy restoration shows serious ignorance of governance, economy, Tinubu claims

President Bola Tinubu has accused his political rivals, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), of demonstrating profound ignorance about governance and the economy. Tinubu made these remarks while receiving Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

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Let’s look at the trajectory of history. I saw one of my opponents now say he will go back to subsidy. I read it. That is a demonstration of serious ignorance about governance and the economy.

Tinubu specifically targeted the notion of reinstating fuel subsidies, stating, "I read it. That is a demonstration of serious ignorance about governance and the economy." He pointed to the financial struggles of many states prior to his administration, noting that 27 states were unable to pay salaries, let alone pensions, and that some governors operated on a "half salary" basis.

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Before I came here, 27 states were unable to pay salaries, not to even talk of pensioners.

The President emphasized that his administration is prioritizing infrastructure projects such as road networks, housing, school rehabilitation, and healthcare improvements. He also highlighted efforts to train teachers and health workers, aiming to protect vulnerable families and demonstrate the government's impact on ordinary people's lives.

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It’s part of your responsibility. And the people of fortunate states pronounce their judgment on you: that they love you. They want you to govern.

Addressing Governor Adeleke, who recently won the governorship election, Tinubu congratulated him and stressed the importance of unity and good governance. He advised Adeleke to build a network of unity and use his position to promote peace and stability, drawing parallels to his own path to the presidency. "God put me here. Where you are today, God put you there. Not the smartness of any of these people," Tinubu stated, attributing their positions to divine will and the support of the people.

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Anybody, any democrat, anybody in the political environment who cannot celebrate the joy of a free and fair election does not deserve the laughter and the happiness of democracy.