President Bola Tinubu has said that the removal of the fuel subsidy is benefiting Abia State and other parts of Nigeria, as it has enabled state governments to execute key development projects.
He made this known during a one-day official visit to Abia State on Friday, where he was represented by the Minister of Works, Dave Umahi.
Tinubu ended Nigeria’s longstanding petrol subsidy with his now-famous declaration, “Subsidy is gone,” during his inauguration speech on May 29, 2023.
The move, however, drew criticism from some Nigerians, who argued that he failed to implement adequate measures to cushion the effects of the subsidy removal.
Speaking on the president’s behalf at the event, where several projects, including the newly remodeled Dr. Michael Okpara Auditorium and completed road projects were commissioned, Umahi said Tinubu’s decision is beginning to yield positive results.
“The removal of the fuel subsidy is gaining momentum projects, and we are beginning to see the benefits here in Abia State,” Tinubu said.
“The same progress is being experienced in other states across Nigeria. I am committed to working with your governor to ensure that Abia State fully reclaims its potential.”
The President’s representative urged residents of the South-East to remain united and peaceful.
“I ask the people of the South-East to unite and come together. As your brother, I have listened to the messages for Mr President and the comments of the governor of Abia State,” he said.
During his speech at the event, the Senator representing Abia South in the Senate, Enyinnaya Abaribe, appealed for the release of the leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu.
Also speaking on Nnamdi Kanu, governor of Abia State, Alex Otti, expressed confidence that the detained IPOB leader will soon regain freedom.
“I can assure you that I am engaging with Mr President. He is favourably disposed to it, and I am sure that in no distant future, Nnamdi Kanu will regain his freedom,” Otti said at the event.
Responding to the Kanu issue, Umahi assured that efforts were underway by regional leaders to pursue a political solution.
“I want to assure Senator Abaribe and Governor Otti that the governors of the South-East are working very seriously. They are exploring a political solution together with our senators, House of Representatives members, and ministers,” he stated.
“I am confident that with the love of the president for the South-East, a peaceful resolution will come to pass.
“But we must remain law-abiding, appreciative, and recognise that this president has placed the South-East at the centre of national activities.”
