Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has sounded a call for self help to the residents of his state, urging them to take charge of their own destiny and contribute to the development of the region. He lamented that the federal government’s handling of the nation’s economy has plunged the country into a deep economic crisis.
Speaking passionately at a workshop held in Benin to discuss the implementation of the state’s new Land Use Charge Law, Governor Obaseki emphasized the urgency of the situation.
He stated, “The country is in crisis economically. We can’t continue to fold our hands and wait for a country that can’t help us. Rather, we will do all we can to help ourselves and our state.”
This poignant call to action comes as President Bola Tinubu’s reforms, including the removal of petroleum subsidies and forex exchange liberalization, have contributed to skyrocketing prices of goods and services, leading to high inflation and widespread economic distress.
In the face of these challenges, Governor Obaseki expressed the state government’s commitment to caring for the most vulnerable citizens. He shared, “From our revenue, we have decided to take money from our Internally Generated Revenue to look after those that can’t feed – the poorest of the poor.
We are doing our best as an administration to make things easy in Edo State for our citizens who have trust in this government.”
He further stressed the importance of states’ self-sufficiency and resilience, asserting that Edo State would thrive independently even without support from the federal government.
The Edo State Governor’s sentiments echo those of various workers’ unions and Nigerians who have expressed their dissatisfaction with the Nigerian government’s approach to economic reforms.
The removal of petrol subsidies has stirred widespread unrest due to the resultant price hikes and economic strain on the population. As President Tinubu appeals for understanding and calm, concerns persist that the government’s actions may not ultimately serve the best interests of the people.
As the economic landscape continues to shift and evolve, it remains to be seen whether Governor Obaseki’s call for self-empowerment will inspire a grassroots movement that redefines the state’s relationship with federal policies.
With a government that is already perceived as having a history of failing to uphold court orders and citizens’ rights, predictions point towards further public outcry and potential clashes between the government’s initiatives and the people’s demands for accountability and economic relief.
