Political analyst and former Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) chairman, Sam Amadi, has criticised the Federal Government’s handling of the economy, insisting that tackling corruption should take priority over debates surrounding fuel subsidy.
Speaking during an interview on Arise Television on Sunday, Amadi charged the government to address corruption first before discussing fuel subsidies.
Amadi argued that the government must address corruption and strengthen accountability in public institutions before asking Nigerians to bear the consequences of difficult economic policies.
He maintained that discussions about subsidy removal should not overshadow concerns about public spending, transparency and the management of national resources.
Expressing his opinion, Amadi said, “Tackle corruption first before talking about subsidies. Fiscal buoyancy has not translated into ease for the people.
“President Bola Tinubu removed the subsidy, saying it was bad, while Atiku says he will bring it back. The previous subsidy was corrupt.
“Peter Obi’s approach is to first address corruption and inefficiency, then see how that translates and assess the need for subsidies.
“I agree with Obi’s approach of making the sectors work better and ensuring efficient pricing first.”
The former NERC chairman’s position comes amid continued public debate over the impact of fuel subsidy removal on transportation costs, food prices and the general cost of living.
Amadi’s comments add to growing calls for the government to demonstrate greater accountability and ensure that the benefits of economic reforms translate into improved living conditions for Nigerians.
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