…By Dorcas Funmi for TDPel Media.
Former Governor’s Criticism:
Otunba Gbenga Daniel, the former Governor of Ogun State, has strongly criticized former President Muhammadu Buhari for his failure to remove fuel subsidy during his tenure.
President Tinubu’s Announcement:
During his inaugural speech, President Bola Tinubu declared an end to fuel subsidy, stating that there is no provision for it in the budget.
Rise in Fuel Prices:
Following the announcement, the cost of petrol skyrocketed, with some fuel stations selling it for as much as N700 per liter.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) adjusted its official rates to reflect the prevailing market conditions.
Commendation for President Tinubu:
Speaking in an interview with Arise TV, Otunba Gbenga Daniel commended President Bola Tinubu for his boldness in putting an end to the petroleum subsidy regime.
Unsustainability of Subsidy:
The Senator-elect representing Ogun East District emphasized that paying for subsidy had become unsustainable, a fact that is widely acknowledged.
He highlighted that the subsidy not only benefits Nigerians but also leads to the illegal smuggling of petroleum products to neighboring West African countries.
Subsidizing the West African Sub-Region:
Daniel pointed out that the subsidy extends beyond Nigeria’s borders, creating an unsustainable situation.
He questioned the viability of subsidizing the entire West African sub-region, citing the lack of mechanisms to ensure that subsidized products remain within Nigeria’s shores.
This issue of smuggling further complicates the subsidy system.
Infeasibility of Subsidizing the Region:
Considering the challenges in containing the subsidized products within Nigeria and addressing smuggling, Daniel concluded that subsidizing the entire West African sub-region is not feasible.
He emphasized the limited capacity to sustain such subsidies.
In summary, former Governor Gbenga Daniel criticized ex-President Buhari for his failure to eliminate fuel subsidy, while commending President Tinubu for his decision to end the subsidy regime.
Daniel highlighted the unsustainability of the subsidy, its impact on smuggling, and the infeasibility of subsidizing the entire West African sub-region.
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