Former Governor of Ekiti State, Kayode Fayemi, has criticized the timing of President Bola Tinubu's announcement to remove the petrol subsidy, calling it "precipitous." Fayemi stated that the announcement did not allow the federal government sufficient time to prepare for the policy's effects, which led to a significant hike in gasoline prices and other goods.
According to Ait News, he said, "The announcement was a little bit precipitous. The federal government didn't have enough time to prepare for the effects of the policy."
Fayemi also acknowledged that the Tinubu administration inherited a challenging economic situation but defended the policy changes themselves. However, he admitted that there were mistakes in the execution of the policies. The former minister noted that the federal government is aware of the challenges and is working to improve the situation.
The removal of the petrol subsidy has led to widespread protests and criticism from Nigerians, who are struggling to cope with the increased cost of living.
Many have criticized the policy, but few have acknowledged the challenges inherited by the Tinubu administration. As Nigerians continue to struggle with the effects of the policy, it remains to be seen how the federal government will address the challenges ahead.