The Chairman of the Ebonyi State Council of Elders, Chief Benjamin Okah has praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Francis Nwifuru for their leadership and commitment to stabilising the nation’s economy.
Chief Okah described President Tinubu’s decision to remove fuel subsidy as a bold step, noting that it would, over time, help strengthen the economy and enhance citizens’ welfare.
He gave the commendation in a goodwill message to the President and the Governor as Nigeria marked its 65th Independence anniversary and Ebonyi State celebrated 29 years of creation.
Chief Okah noted that independence had enabled Nigeria to take control of its resources, particularly mineral wealth, which were exploited during the colonial era.
He said; “In colonial periods, there was no development, it was pure exploitation of people and resources. Everything was taken away. But now in independence, we have some control of our mineral resources, and there is more development than then.”
On subsidy removal, the Council of Elders Chairman stressed that it was one of President Tinubu’s most impactful reforms.
“The previous leaders had wanted to remove fuel subsidy but lacked the courage. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu came and did it. Fuel subsidy was a fraudulent activity perpetuated by a few individuals who became billionaires at the expense of Nigerians. Our crude oil was taken outside the country to refine, thereby shutting down our refineries. But today, some of our refineries have started working courtesy of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the economy is gradually stabilising,” he explained.
Chief Okah stated that the policy was also yielding positive results in Ebonyi State.
“Ebonyi State is one of the fastest-growing young states in Nigeria. The Governor of the State, Francis Nwifuru, through his leadership mantra, which is the people’s charter of needs, has put efforts in place with that of Mr President to better the lives of the people,” he stated.
PIAK