A prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) leader in Delta State, Chief Ayiri Emami, has defended President Bola Tinubu’s administration, stating that the widespread hardship following the removal of fuel subsidies affects both the rich and poor alike.
In an interview with LEADERSHIP Friday, Emami argued that Tinubu inherited a flawed foundation from previous leaders, making governance an uphill battle.
“Tinubu did not cause the hardship,” he said, attributing current economic challenges to systemic issues predating the president’s tenure.
Emami acknowledged the slow pace of progress but praised Tinubu’s efforts to address Nigeria’s deep-rooted problems.
“I think we are getting there,” though he cautioned that fixing Nigeria’s issues would take longer than a single four-year term.
The APC chieftain highlighted the severe hunger plaguing Nigerians, proposing solutions such as tackling insurgency in the North-east to revive farming and introducing palliatives like compressed natural gas (CNG)-powered boats for fishermen in the Niger Delta.
He also called for improved infrastructure, particularly roads, and commended the minister for Works for ongoing efforts.
However, Emami urged Tinubu to reshuffle his cabinet, criticising some ministers as “sluggish” and ineffective.
Emami shifted some blame to state governors, noting that increased federal allocations post-subsidy removal have not translated into welfare improvements.
“The states are supposed to look at the needs of their people, but I think the governors don’t care,” he said.
Addressing political dynamics, Emami welcomed opposition governors defecting to the APC, likening it to players joining a successful football club.
However, he warned against internal party conflicts, particularly in Delta, where newcomers risk alienating loyalists.
On ethnic tensions, Emami accused the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) of unfair constituency delineation in Warri, claiming it marginalises the Itsekiri ethnic group.
He demanded adherence to legal frameworks to ensure equitable representation.
Emami also reminded Tinubu of campaign promises to the South-South, including the Omadina-Escravos road and the Ogidigben Export Processing Zone project, which he said are critical to addressing regional economic challenges.
He cautioned against coalitions that could divert investments from the South-South, urging the president to prioritise tangible development to alleviate hunger and boost economic prospects in the region.
