Seyi Makinde Critiques Federal Economic Policies Amid Poverty Rise

Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde criticized the Federal Government’s economic reforms, asserting that the increasing poverty rate indicates the need for leadership assessment based on its effects on citizens rather than solely on economic indicators. In a newsletter released on Thursday, he stated that one presidential term is adequate for Nigerians to evaluate a leader’s priorities and decide on re-election.

Makinde compared his governance approach in Oyo State with the Federal Government's economic management under President Bola Tinubu. He acknowledged the economic rationale behind policies like the removal of petrol subsidy but emphasized the need to consider their impact on ordinary Nigerians.

Makinde highlighted his administration's focus on paying workers' salaries and pensions while pursuing infrastructure development since taking office in 2019. He noted that personnel costs accounted for about 70 percent of Oyo State’s federal receipts and discussed alternative financing methods for infrastructure projects.

He concluded that reforms should be evaluated not just by macroeconomic indicators but also by their effects on citizens' livelihoods.