Economic Hardship: I Take Full Responsibility, Says Tinubu

President Bola Tinubu, on Wednesday, vowed that Nigeria would survive the current economic hardship even as he took full responsibility for the adverse outcomes of his policy reforms.

“Nigeria will survive the current economic challenges. There is light at the end of the tunnel. I requested the job, and I am not complaining about it. I take full responsibility,” said Tinubu when he addressed Afenifere leaders at the residence of Pa Reuben Fasoranti in Akure, Ondo State.

Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, stated this in a statement he signed on Wednesday titled, ‘President Tinubu: I take full responsibility for the nation; we are building an efficient Nigeria that is inclusive and fair to all Nigerians.”

Tinubu emphasised his commitment to leading Nigeria towards economic and social prosperity, saying, “Nigeria will survive the current economic challenges. There is light at the end of the tunnel. I requested the job, and I am not complaining about it. I take full responsibility.

“We are meeting our obligations to the international community. To lenders, we have not defaulted, and we are not going to default. We are navigating the twists and bends on the road to Nigeria’s prosperity.”

On reforming Nigeria, Tinubu said his task will be to ensure fiscal and true federalism, as well as the broad-based manifestation of the philosophy of “what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander.”

He acknowledged the understanding and support of all Nigerians in the face of the harsh but temporary economic conditions, assuring them that their patience and perseverance will not be fruitless.

“The economic challenges we have endured since assuming office are not new to me. As the former Governor of Lagos State, I faced similar calls for my resignation.

“But, through perseverance, Lagos emerged as the fifth largest economy in the entire continent of Africa. We must manage this moment with wisdom and grow Nigeria responsibly.

“I campaigned for this office to serve Nigeria’s interests, and I was elected. Some said I would not last in the tribunal and came up with all sorts of predictions, but even when in court, I remained focused.

“We cannot allow Nigeria’s economy to be exploited. We cannot abandon our economy to marauders. I am determined to re-engineer our finances and curb selfish interests permanently,” he stated.

Speaking on behalf of Afenifere, Chief Olu Falae, a former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, who read Fasoranti’s address, commended Tinubu for his commitment to Nigeria’s progress and expressed support for his administration’s efforts.

“You have kept your word to return to this place where we all prayed for you, and this shows that you are a man of your word,” the elder statesman stated.

Fasoranti asked the President to be fair and courageous, declaring that such traits were the hallmark of the Afenifere family.

“Today, you are carrying our flag. We are noted for integrity, competence, fairness, and courage. Your performance so far has shown that you understand the full gravity of your mandate, which is to show the Nigerian people that a good government is possible,” he said.

Earlier, Tinubu paid a condolence visit to the family of the late former Governor of the state, Rotimi Akeredolu, and visited the palace of the Olowo of Owo Kingdom, Oba Ajibade Gbadegesin Ogunoye III.

Speaking at the palace of the monarch, he eulogised the late Akeredolu as a statesman and a distinguished legal luminary who served his people with unwavering dedication.

“We lost an illustrious son. Akeredolu was very close to me and an ally. He was a son of the soil, and I have come to pay homage,” the President said.

He extended his prayers for the good health, progress, and prosperity of the traditional ruler and the community and thanked the people of Owo for their support to the bereaved family.

Accompanied by the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, Tinubu also commiserated with the late governor’s widow, Betty, the children, and other family members.

Recently, human rights groups, the Joint Action Front and the Coalition for Revolution on Monday hit the streets of Lagos State to protest against the soaring price of food and the high cost of living in the country.

This protest was held against the warning issued by the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Adegoke Fayoade, on Sunday.

According to him, the police are aware of the plan by some people to protest in the state and will ensure that necessary measures are put in place for the safety of the lives and property of Lagosians.

Before then, youths in Ibadan, Oyo State capital, on Monday, hit the street to protest the skyrocketing price of food and the state of the economy.

The PUNCH observed that protesters gathered around the Mokola area in the state wielding placards with various inscriptions such as ‘End food hike and inflation,’ ‘The poor are starving,’ and ‘Tinubu, don’t forget your promises,’ among others.

They were also chanting songs to show their grievances.