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Demonstration Of Ignorance — Tinubu Rejects Subsidy Restoration Demands
President Bola Tinubu on Thursday accused former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and the presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) of demonstrating a lack of understanding of governance and the Nigerian economy.
Tinubu made the remarks while receiving Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Adeleke, who contested the August 15 governorship election on the platform of the Accord Party, defeated the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate and was subsequently declared winner by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The President criticised calls by some political opponents to restore fuel subsidy, describing such proposals as evidence of “serious ignorance” of governance and the economy.
“Before I came here, 27 states were unable to pay salaries, not to even talk of pensioners,” Tinubu said.
He argued that the removal of subsidy had strengthened the capacity of federal and state governments to fund salaries and provide infrastructure and essential services.
Tinubu also congratulated Adeleke on his electoral victory, urging him to use his second term to promote unity, peace, stability and the rule of law.
“You won the election. That is the essence of democracy,” the President said.
He urged the governor not to stigmatise his political opponents and to use his position to deepen reconciliation in Osun State.
“Promote democracy. Promote stability. Promote the rule of law. Don’t stigmatise any of your opponents,” Tinubu told Adeleke.
In his remarks, Adeleke thanked the President for what he described as allowing a free and fair election in Osun State.
“I’m here to thank Mr. President, the father of the nation, because he fought for this democracy. That is why he allowed a free and fair election, and that is the result,” Adeleke said.
The governor said his visit was aimed at expressing appreciation to Tinubu and reaffirming his commitment to the survival of democracy in Nigeria.