President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said powerful interests affected by the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of Nigeria’s foreign exchange system are “wishing him dead” over the economic reforms introduced by his administration.
The President’s remarks were conveyed by former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba, during a stakeholders’ meeting organised by the National Democratic Coalition in Lagos to commemorate the group’s 32nd anniversary.
According to Osoba, Tinubu said individuals and groups who previously benefited from multiple exchange rates and oil subsidy payments had become uncomfortable with the reforms because they could no longer profit from round-tripping and arbitrage in the foreign exchange market.
“As for security, he says, I should let you know, that he is aware that there is a deliberate attempt to disrupt the peace of this country by people whom he knew he had offended by canceling multiple exchange rates and by canceling oil subsidies,” Osoba said while delivering the President’s message.
He added, “He said those cabals who are doing round-tripping will wish him dead any time but he is determined that if that is the only thing he would do, he would make sure he rearranges the economy. No matter what, he is determined to face it. So that’s the message from Mr. President.”
Tinubu reportedly maintained that despite opposition from entrenched interests, his administration would continue implementing economic restructuring policies aimed at stabilising the nation’s economy.
Osoba also disclosed that the President believes there are attempts by some groups to destabilise the country as a reaction to the policy changes introduced since he assumed office in 2023.
The former governor said Tinubu remains focused on economic recovery efforts and improving national security, particularly amid rising insecurity concerns in parts of the South-West region.
He further revealed that the President is optimistic about delivering improved results if given a second term in office, noting that additional political and structural reforms would be pursued under his administration.
