Osogbo:A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Osun, Olatunbosun Oyintiloye, has urged presidential candidates of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Atiku Abubakar, and the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Peter Obi, to ensure their campaign promises are realistic, considering Nigeria’s current economic situation.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oyintiloye expressed concerns over promises made by Atiku and Obi, particularly the restoration of the fuel subsidy, arguing it is impractical and could lead to unrest. He highlighted that all levels of government have adapted to functioning without the subsidy under the current administration.
He also mentioned the presidential candidate of the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP), Donald Duke, who pledged to cap the petrol price at N300 per litre, questioning the feasibility of such a promise. Oyintiloye urged opposition candidates to be truthful and avoid misleading the public with unrealistic pledges.
The former lawmaker noted that recent economic reforms, including the removal of the fuel subsidy and foreign exchange adjustments by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, have created significant fiscal changes. However, they have also increased pressure on households and businesses.
Further, Oyintiloye emphasized that increased allocations from the Federation Account Allocation Committee (FAAC) have provided state governments with more financial flexibility to fulfill their responsibilities and address infrastructure and social-service deficits.
He urged opposition candidates to support the Federal Government’s economic strategies or develop alternative campaign approaches. Oyintiloye questioned the impact of restoring the fuel subsidy on government earnings and ongoing projects.
Additionally, the APC chieftain called on state governors to ensure accountability by converting increased revenue into tangible improvements like better infrastructure, healthcare, and employment opportunities. He stressed that citizens expect visible benefits rather than mere revenue increases.
He also recommended that the Federal Government continue efforts to alleviate economic burdens on vulnerable households, control inflation, expand job opportunities, and enhance purchasing power. Oyintiloye encouraged Nigerians to evaluate the government’s economic reforms objectively, expressing hope for beneficial outcomes for all.