The President of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees, Ambali Olatunji, has voiced his concerns regarding President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies, which he believes are adversely affecting the general population.
Olatunji expressed these sentiments during an event in Benin City, Edo State, specifically the inaugural session of a two-day National Youth Conference organized by the union. He didn’t mince words in his criticism of Tinubu, particularly regarding what he perceived as an excessively large cabinet, comprised of numerous ministers and a substantial entourage of aides.
Olatunji emphasized the necessity for Tinubu to comprehend the hardships faced by ordinary citizens, asserting that a government with 45 ministers and an extensive retinue of aides places an undue burden on an already fragile economy.
Additionally, Olatunji decried the removal of fuel subsidies without the implementation of any mitigating measures. He argued that the current economic policies of the administration disproportionately affect the impoverished and vulnerable segments of society.
He stated, “At a time like this, we should be discussing ways to reduce the cost of governance instead of exacerbating the already dire situation. Considering the challenges facing the country, around 26 ministers and a limited number of aides would have sufficed.”
Olatunji also criticized the abrupt removal of fuel subsidies without accompanying relief measures, attributing the nation’s current economic woes in part to this decision. He expressed hope that the President would reconsider these policies to guide the country in a more favorable direction.
He concluded by emphasizing that it is unjust to expect Nigerians to adjust their standard of living while government officials lead lavish lifestyles. Olatunji acknowledged the widespread frustration among the populace but urged them not to lose hope.
Furthermore, Olatunji commended the Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Godwin Obaseki, for creating a conducive environment within the state. He also called on both the federal and state governments to grant financial autonomy to local governments.
Lazarus Adorolo, the Edo State chairman of NULGE, highlighted the conference’s primary objective, which is to prepare workers for retirement. He noted that the skills acquired during the conference would prove invaluable in their post-retirement lives.
A significant aspect of the two-day conference was the official inauguration of the Edo State NULGE House.