Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State believes that the recent Supreme Court judgement granting financial autonomy to local governments is a mere distraction from the pressing issues plaguing Nigeria.
In a video statement, he asserts that the country’s true concerns lie in the lack of productivity, widespread hunger, and growing anger among its citizens.
Makinde questioned the significance of the Supreme Court’s decision on local government autonomy, emphasizing that it diverts attention from the core problems that urgently need to be addressed.
He believes that the key issue Nigeria faces is its insufficient production capacity, resulting in a lack of economic growth and development.
While the Supreme Court ruling bars state governments from controlling or withholding funds meant for local governments, Makinde argued that prolonged discussions on this matter will only prolong the neglect of the real issues at hand. The prevailing hunger and anger among the populace cannot be overshadowed by legal debates.
Expressing his disappointment, the governor criticizes the Federal Government’s recent announcement of a 150-day duty-free import window for food commodities as a solution to rising food prices. He considers it a shameful admission of the country’s inability to produce enough food to meet its own needs.
Makinde called for a collective effort to tackle Nigeria’s fundamental challenges, focusing on increasing productivity and addressing the root causes of hunger and anger.
He urged the government to prioritize initiatives that promote self-sufficiency and economic empowerment, rather than resorting to import-dependent measures.
