Nigeria Has Collapsed Under Tinubu, says Babachir Lawal

Engr Babachir Lawal, the ex-Secretary to the Government of the Federation, claimed that Nigeria experienced a downfall following President Bola Tinubu’s inauguration on May 29, 2023.

Lawal expressed dismay over the unexpected announcement made by Tinubu regarding the removal of fuel subsidies on the day of inauguration, which led to economic turmoil in the country. Lawal pointed out that the policy was implemented before the formation of the cabinet.

Lawal pointed out that the removal of fuel subsidies resulted in a rise in transportation costs, which are crucial for driving business activities among both wealthy individuals and the general population in Nigeria.

Lawal criticized Tinubu for failing to have a functioning cabinet and Federal Executive Council to handle the aftermath of this policy change, ultimately causing the country to spiral into chaos.

Upon taking office, you immediately implement significant policies that greatly affect society. It’s akin to a bold cowboy or rugged individual removing subsidies. There is no minister of planning to strategize the outcomes and address the consequences.

The absence of a minister of finance means there is no one to assess the societal impact. Even the federal executive council, which would typically approve such decisions, is nonexistent. At that moment, there is no one to offer advice or consider potential scenarios.

He continued, recounting the aftermath of the inauguration, describing how Nigeria swiftly crumbled like a deflating balloon. The sudden collapse led to a threefold increase in transportation fares, causing significant financial strain.

As a farmer, he shared his personal ordeal of being unable to afford animal feed due to the exorbitant transportation costs. The escalating fuel prices further exacerbated the situation, making it impossible for him to purchase necessary equipment for his farm without incurring exorbitant fees.

In essence, he highlighted how a single policy decision had catastrophic consequences on various aspects of daily life.