Subsidy Removal is Good Mr. President, But…
By Lawan Bukar Maigana
The removal of fuel subsidy by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has had far-ranging consequences, amplifying the existing economic hardships faced by millions of Nigerians. The nation is currently grappling with an unprecedented inflation rate in essential commodities, transportation, and services.
As a result, a large proportion of Nigerians find themselves living below the poverty line, struggling to make ends meet.
This development has directly contributed to the spiraling inflation rate, which has hit the prices of foodstuff, transportation, and essential services the hardest. This has created a burden on the average Nigerian, as their meager income is further stretched, making it increasingly difficult to afford necessities.
As I write this article, the bus fare from Maiduguri to Abuja is N10, 500 which was previously N7, 500 as reflected on a circular released by Borno Express Cooperation on June 1st, 2023. Kaduna to Maiduguri, which used to be N6000, is now N9000.
In the event whereby vehicles are scarce at the garage, travelers pay N12,000 from Maiduguri to Kano which was formerly N6,500, a non-Borno Express driver confirmed. This is unbearable and unacceptable!
The economic downturn occasioned by subsidy removal has disproportionately affected the most vulnerable segments of society. Many Nigerians are now living below the breadline, struggling to feed their families and maintain a decent standard of living.
Nobody is spared from the unbearable consequences of the removal of fuel subsidies. Not even the bourgeois elites’ empire in the country. They, too, hide and cry. Who the subsidy removal benefits then!?
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Civil servants, especially those working in state and local governments are among the primary victims of the removal of fuel subsidies as many of them can’t feed their families. A 100% increase in their salaries is a necessary step to restore their purchasing power and improve their quality of life.
Additionally, an increase in civil servant salaries would contribute to the overall improvement of public services. It would attract and retain talented professionals who are essential for efficient service delivery.
Adequate compensation would motivate civil servants to perform at their best, leading to a more productive and effective public sector.
Now, what about the unemployed and jobless massive population in the country? How would their well-being be improved? Who would provide for them?!
A larger portion of Nigeria’s population is suffering in silence as a result of the monstrous inflation rate occasioned by the removal of the stubborn fuel subsidy. Some people eat once a day while others, the better-rich eat twice a day, skipping lunch.
Therefore, President Tinubu must acknowledge the grave consequences of the current economic situation and the suffering experienced by Nigerians.
As the leader of the nation, he has the power to reverse the economic downturn and alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. It is imperative that the President takes into account the plight of the citizens and work towards restoring their faith in the government.
While the road to economic recovery may be challenging, President Tinubu needs to consider the long-term benefits of prioritizing the well-being of Nigerians by implementing a 100% increase in civil servant salaries and creating job opportunities for our overwhelming jobless population thereby contributing to poverty reduction, improving living standards, and restoring hope for the nation’s future.
Lawan Bukar Maigana writes from Yobe State and can be reached via email:[email protected]
