At the 70th anniversary event of the Ibadan branch of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), Senator Bashiru Ajibola, human rights lawyer Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa, SAN, and PDP chieftain Segun Sowunmi debated the economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, offering starkly differing perspectives.
Adegboruwa and Sowunmi criticized Tinubu’s policies, claiming they have worsened poverty, caused widespread suffering, fueled inflation, and contributed to the ‘Japa’ syndrome. Adegboruwa called for greater focus on devolution of power, restructuring, and infrastructure development, criticizing the lack of consistency in government policies. He argued that the president has not yet delivered on promises and suggested that a more independent judiciary and true federalism are necessary for progress.
Sowunmi, condemning the removal of fuel subsidies, argued that the government’s economic mismanagement has caused the devaluation of the naira and the rising dollar. He also raised concerns about the dominance of Southerners in key government positions and the ongoing monetary policy failures.
In contrast, Ajibola defended Tinubu’s economic policies, rejecting claims of socialism. He emphasized the administration’s focus on infrastructure development, a unified exchange rate, and policies aimed at reducing inflation. He also pointed to the successful settlement of Nigeria’s forex debt and an improved investment climate, asserting that the removal of the fuel subsidy was a positive move for the economy.
