A group within the Yoruba socio-political organization, Afenifere, has blamed former President Muhammadu Buhari and former Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) Governor Godwin Emefiele for the current economic difficulties in Nigeria.
In a recent statement signed by Jare Ajayi and Kole Omololu, the group criticized the economic strategies of Buhari’s administration.
They specifically pointed out the government’s decision not to allocate funds for subsidies in the previous budget, which resulted in President Bola Tinubu quickly removing the fuel subsidy when he took office.
Afenifere criticized Buhari for ignoring important issues like kidnapping, banditry, and terrorism while he was in office.
They also mentioned a probe panel’s claim that Emefiele printed N22.7 trillion using unconventional methods, while the government borrowed money to pay salaries and pensions.
Afenifere pointed out that some ministers suggested removing subsidies during Buhari’s time as president, but these suggestions were not followed through.
They praised President Tinubu for quickly making changes to his inauguration speech and ending the subsidy program.
Afenifere supported this decision, noting that there would be no more subsidies from June 2023 onwards.
Part of the statement read: “President Buhari could not rein in his critical officials like the then Governor of CBN, Mr. Godwin Emefiele, who was printing money rather than facing the reality of taking the difficult decisions, which were postponed till the evil day.
“He even wanted to contest the presidential election! There were no penalties for his infractions by President Buhari. These inactions and false lives continued till May 29, 2023, when the new helmsman, Asiwaju Ahmed Tinubu, was sworn in as president.
“President Tinubu wasted no time amending his inauguration address and declaring the subsidy regime over. This was obvious as there was no appropriation for subsidy from June 2023.”
