BudgIT Criticizes FG’s Policies, Reveals Names Of Six Ministers Tinubu Must Sack Now 

In a bold statement, Seun Onigbinde, founder of Nigerian civic organization BudgIT, has openly criticized the administration of President Bola Tinubu, citing its economic policy failures. Onigbinde condemned Tinubu’s approach to fuel subsidy removal and the unification of foreign exchange rates, suggesting it reflects a form of “political opportunism” rather than a sound technocratic government.

Speaking on Channels Television’s program Inside Sources with Laolu Akande, Onigbinde expressed deep disappointment in Tinubu’s cabinet choices, asserting that at least six current ministers should be dismissed. According to him, these ministers have failed to contribute meaningfully to Nigeria’s complex economic challenges, including rising inflation and an unstable currency.

“Political Opportunism Over Technocratic Leadership”

Onigbinde criticized Tinubu’s governance style, claiming it lacks the technocratic expertise essential for effectively managing Nigeria’s economy. “Honestly, I don’t think they’ve started well. I think we are seeing a dearth of technocratic leadership. There is an over-extension of political opportunism. That is my problem with the government,” he stated.

BudgIT, a pro-accountability organization, has consistently called for transparency and efficiency in Nigeria’s financial policies. Onigbinde argued that Tinubu’s decisions—specifically the removal of fuel subsidies on day one of his administration and the rapid move towards currency unification—were ill-advised and lacked the necessary economic foundation to maintain stability.

Calls for Cabinet Reshuffle: Six Ministers on the Chopping Block

Onigbinde emphasized that a swift cabinet reshuffle is necessary to correct the administration’s trajectory. Without naming the specific ministers, he strongly hinted that Tinubu should consider replacing six underperforming members. “There are still more people in the system that he needs to take out. We need the days of Okonjo, Soludo, El-Rufai, we need that technocratic core,” Onigbinde added.

Fuel Subsidy and Naira Devaluation: Policy Missteps?

According to Onigbinde, the administration’s decision to remove the fuel subsidy immediately upon taking office was “a bad decision.” He argued that the removal lacked sufficient economic safeguards, leading to increased hardship for everyday Nigerians. He further criticized the decision to unify the foreign exchange rates without a stabilizing mechanism, which has caused the naira to fluctuate sharply against other currencies. “A currency must have some level of stability. You don’t see that anywhere in the world where currency just fluctuates randomly like we are having it right now,” he explained.

Nigeria’s Struggle with Economic Challenges

Amid high inflation, food insecurity, and economic uncertainty, BudgIT’s call for change comes at a time when many Nigerians are grappling with the impact of these economic shifts. Onigbinde urged President Tinubu to reflect on his approach, stating, “Do I want to govern, or do I want to do politics?”