Former presidential candidate Peter Obi has raised concerns over the growing level of poverty in Nigeria, blaming the economic policies of President Bola Tinubu for worsening the situation.
In a statement shared on social media, Obi cited a recent policy report released by Agora Policy which indicated that Nigeria’s poverty rate has increased significantly since the introduction of the current administration’s economic reforms.
According to the report, the poverty rate in the country has risen from about 40 percent before the reforms to over 63 percent under the present government.
Obi noted that the findings suggest millions of additional Nigerians have fallen below the poverty line, pushing the number of people living in poverty to well over 140 million in a country with a population of more than 220 million.
He argued that the rising hardship is already visible across the country, with many households struggling to afford basic necessities such as food, transportation, rent and healthcare.
The former governor of Anambra State also said several small businesses are shutting down while families are forced to cut food consumption, rely on borrowing and endure frequent electricity shortages.
Obi criticised claims that the economy is improving, insisting that economic progress cannot be measured by government statistics alone when citizens continue to face worsening living conditions.
He also condemned what he described as extravagant spending by political leaders despite the growing financial difficulties faced by ordinary Nigerians.
According to him, leaders must demonstrate sacrifice and discipline, especially during periods of economic hardship.
“You cannot ask citizens to fast while those in power continue to feast,” Obi said, stressing that genuine reforms must prioritise the welfare of the population.
He further stated that effective economic reforms should focus on protecting vulnerable households, expanding productive sectors of the economy and creating a supportive environment for small businesses.
Obi added that Nigeria’s development challenges are not due to a lack of natural or human resources but rather the absence of leadership that prioritises accountability, prudent spending and people-centred policies.
He called on the government to urgently implement policies that promote economic growth, strengthen production and provide support systems for struggling Nigerians.
Be the first to comment