Rhodes-Vivour Slams Tinubu’s Reforms, Claims They’re Worsening Nigerians’ Hardship
Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the 2023 Labour Party (LP) governorship candidate in Lagos State, has sharply criticized the economic reforms introduced by President Bola Tinubu, arguing that they have only deepened the suffering of ordinary Nigerians.
In a candid interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Rhodes-Vivour claimed that the majority of Nigerians are struggling more than ever due to the policies implemented since Tinubu took office in May 2023.
The remarks come amid ongoing debates over President Tinubu’s economic policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira. While these reforms were designed to address Nigeria’s fiscal challenges, they have led to soaring inflation and skyrocketing prices, further worsening the financial situation for many Nigerians.
Rhodes-Vivour highlighted that over 70% of Nigerians’ income is now being spent on basic needs, primarily transportation and food, leaving little to no room for other essential expenses like housing.
He stated that these economic reforms have led to “unprecedented hardship” for the average citizen, with no sign of relief in sight.
“The people are enduring unprecedented hardship. Currently, over 70% of their income goes toward transportation and food, leaving them unable to even consider housing,” Rhodes-Vivour remarked.
The LP chieftain also criticized what he described as a culture of wastefulness among government officials, claiming that they are out of touch with the struggles of the general populace.
“The only groups seemingly benefitting from these reforms are the bankers, those in government, and the President’s allies. How many ordinary Nigerians can claim they’ve gained anything from these reforms?” Rhodes-Vivour asked, expressing frustration over the widening gap between the elite and the rest of the country.