Delta State Governor, Chief Sheriff Oborevwori, has criticized the APC-led administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, accusing it of implementing economic policies that have plunged Nigeria deeper into poverty and hardship. Oborevwori described these policies as counterproductive, asserting that they are transforming Nigeria into the “poverty capital of the world.”
The governor attributed the widespread hunger, poverty, and unemployment in the country to initiatives like the removal of petroleum subsidies and the floating of the Naira. According to Oborevwori, any potential benefits from subsidy removal have been eclipsed by Naira devaluation and runaway inflation.
Reacting to comments made by former Deputy Senate President, Senator Ovie Omo-Agege, at an APC event, Oborevwori dismissed claims that Tinubu’s economic policies have driven increased economic growth and federal allocations. Omo-Agege had praised the administration, citing rising exports, higher incomes for farmers, and increased funds for states and local governments.
Oborevwori refuted these assertions, arguing that the so-called increased federal allocation has little real value in the face of inflation and economic instability. He stated, “What is the worth of increased funds when Nigerians are grappling with mass poverty, unemployment, and the closure of major factories and multinationals?”
The governor also questioned the credibility of Omo-Agege’s criticism of Delta State’s financial management, pointing to the devastating national economic challenges under the APC government.
Highlighting reports from the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF), Oborevwori underscored that the Tinubu administration’s economic strategies are failing, with over 130 million Nigerians now living below the poverty line.
He criticized the APC economic model, stating, “Is this the model Omo-Agege wants Delta to adopt? A model synonymous with economic hardship? Deltans deserve better than APC’s T-pain economics.”
Governor Oborevwori reiterated his administration’s commitment to shielding Delta State from the adverse effects of APC governance and prioritizing policies that deliver tangible benefits to residents.