The former National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) said this during a live interview on Channels Television’s programme, Inside Sources.
The former Governor of Osun State, Adebisi Akande, on Friday, disclosed that former President Muhammadu Buhari could have successfully removed the subsidy early during his administration.
The former National Chairman of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) said this during a live interview on Channels Television’s programme, Inside Sources.
He explained that he had discussed the removal of the subsidy with Buhari before his inauguration, and the then-president-elect appeared convinced.
He said he expected the subsidy to be eliminated early in Buhari’s term but that it did not happen.
He said he observed a change in approach after Buhari assumed office, with a cautious and gradual approach that continued into the first four years.
According to him, Buhari expressed the intention to remove the subsidy at the beginning of his first term, but public reaction prompted a reconsideration.
He said, “Removal of subsidy between the time Buhari was elected president and the time he was inaugurated, we had several discussions, sessions and meetings to see that the subsidy should be removed.
“And he was convinced. And I thought that as soon as he got to power, he would remove the subsidy, but I don’t know what happened.
“After his inauguration, he started being careful, slowing down until the first four years. So, at the beginning of his first term, he came out; he wanted to remove the subsidy, but the country reacted and he had to back out.
“So, from the beginning, I was uncomfortable with Buhari having the subsidy in his hand. The subsidy ought to have been removed in his time; by now, Nigerians would have been used to it and it would have been smooth.”
Buhari Should Have Removed Subsidy – Akande
|