Prince Adewole Adebayo Criticizes IMF’s Stance on Tinubu’s Economic Policies
In an exclusive interview with Daily Post, Prince Adewole Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party’s (SDP) presidential candidate in the 2023 elections, expressed strong concerns over the direction of Nigeria’s economic policies under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
He cautioned Nigerians against pressuring the government to conform to International Monetary Fund (IMF) standards, warning that such a move could worsen the country’s economic challenges.
Tinubu’s Policies Under Scrutiny
Reflecting on Tinubu’s leadership, Adebayo described the current state of the nation as “predictably bad.”
He attributed this to governance approaches focused more on political entitlement and regional affiliations rather than policy-driven solutions.
According to him, the government lacks a comprehensive economic policy and operates with sporadic actions that fail to address fundamental issues affecting the people.
He criticized the government’s handling of the manufacturing sector, noting that Nigeria’s industrial base has largely become a “museum” with no significant growth.
He also took aim at the IMF, accusing the global financial institution of pushing for reforms that further burden Nigerians instead of addressing the country’s unique socioeconomic realities.
The Need for Strategic Governance
Adebayo argued that the government has yet to form a cohesive leadership team capable of tackling the country’s pressing issues.
He emphasized the importance of engaging talent from across the country to create actionable policies.
He also highlighted the need to link security with economic stability, suggesting that agricultural reforms and strategic investments in employment and education are critical to reducing inflation and improving living standards.
Commenting on former President Olusegun Obasanjo’s critique of the Tinubu administration, Adebayo agreed with some of Obasanjo’s points, particularly on the issue of “state capture.”
However, he urged Obasanjo to acknowledge his own role in some of the systemic challenges facing Nigeria, such as the sale of key national assets during his tenure.
Despite these reservations, Adebayo praised Obasanjo’s ability to govern efficiently and consult widely during his time in office.
Adebayo concluded by urging the current administration to move beyond rhetoric and prioritize meaningful governance.
He called on President Tinubu to directly address Obasanjo’s criticisms and ensure that governance is visible across all sectors, rather than relying on spokespersons and ad hoc actions.
For more updates on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape, stay tuned to NIGPOST.
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