In a recent interview on 90MinutesAfrica, former Secretary-General of the Oodua Peoples Congress (OPC), Mr. Kayode Ogundamisi, expressed dismay at what he perceives as extravagant spending during the Bola Tinubu presidency.
Ogundamisi, a UK-based political commentator, highlighted concerns about the squandering of funds, stating, “The amount of money that is being spent on frivolities under this government is shocking and it’s not something that any Nigerian should be proud of. Remember the issue of the presidential yacht where about five billion naira was expended. There is just so much waste that I hope will be nipped in the bud before the next budget cycle.”
Since Bola Tinubu assumed office on May 29, economic hardship in Nigeria has intensified, driven by policies such as petrol subsidy removal and currency floating. This has led to a significant devaluation of the naira and a decline in purchasing power, exacerbating poverty levels.
Despite the government’s insistence that these measures are essential for future economic prosperity, Ogundamisi reported that ordinary Nigerians face economic challenges. Meanwhile, political officeholders engage in extravagant spending, creating a stark contrast between the government and the people.
Ogundamisi criticized the ten billion naira allocated for refurbishing the presidential lodge in Lagos, questioning the necessity when the president could utilize his personal residence in Bourdillon, Ikoyi, saving national resources.
He also pointed out the dysfunction within the Tinubu government, reporting that lower-level appointees flaunt opulent lifestyles on social media amid imposed austerity measures. Ogundamisi recalled the contradiction in directives, as exemplified by the climate change conference delegation to Dubai exceeding 1,400 people, despite President Tinubu’s supposed disapproval.
In light of Nigeria’s economic challenges, Ogundamisi reported deeming taking a large contingent to Dubai as wasteful, emphasizing the need for responsible financial management in the face of adversity.
