Senator Ali Ndume, who represents Borno South in the National Assembly, has expressed grave concerns about the skyrocketing costs of fuel, food, and essential goods, which are becoming increasingly unaffordable for the average Nigerian, who is suffering in silence.
In a statement released to journalists in Abuja, Ndume also raised the alarm about the actions of certain individuals he referred to as “fifth columnists,” who he claims are actively working to undermine President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
The former Senate Leader asserted that these disruptive figures are trying to incite public discontent against the Tinubu administration. He criticized these advisers for advocating harsh reforms and detrimental policies instead of focusing on controlling inflation and stabilizing the exchange rate, which are severely impacting Nigerians’ quality of life.
Ndume warned that those intent on tarnishing the President’s reputation will stop at nothing to inflict hardship on citizens through misguided “reforms,” ultimately placing the blame on President Tinubu when the situation worsens.
He lamented that many families are struggling to meet their daily needs due to the hyperinflation resulting from continuous price hikes in essential goods and services.
“I firmly believe that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu genuinely cares for Nigeria and its citizens. I know this because I understand his values. However, some of his advisers do not have the nation’s best interests at heart and are leading him astray,” Ndume stated.
He urged the President to resist the influence of these detrimental advisers who seek to turn the populace against his administration.
“The suffering inflicted upon Nigerians is reaching unbearable levels. As I speak from Borno, I can confirm that people are truly struggling, facing hunger, frustration, and anger,” he continued.
“In Borno State, many families can no longer afford to eat. The relentless rise in prices is unimaginable. Farmers are unable to transport their produce due to exorbitant transportation costs. Those who can manage to do so inflate the prices of their goods, leaving many unable to feed their families.”
Ndume further noted that traveling has become prohibitively expensive, citing the high costs of road travel from Abuja to Maiduguri, which many cannot afford.
“I know that President Tinubu has good intentions for Nigerians and should not allow a handful of bad advisers to derail progress in the country. I implore him to take action before the situation escalates.”
He warned against testing the limits of Nigerians’ patience, a situation exacerbated by the influence of these harmful advisers.
“As soon as the President returns, I urge him to urgently address these pressing issues. The purchasing power of Nigerians is alarmingly low, and they cannot keep up with the daily demands placed upon them by those who wish to see the state falter.”
