Barrister Femi Falana (SAN) has attributed the hardships caused by the alleged fraud in the fuel subsidy system and the unfulfilled promises of oil sector reforms to the “irresponsibility” of the ruling class.
During his appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today, the human rights lawyer emphasized the urgent need for the federal government to take action and alleviate the suffering of the citizens.
Falana stated, “The government must promptly address the undeserved pain inflicted on the people due to the irresponsibility of the Nigerian ruling class.”
He also highlighted a broken promise made by General Muhammadu Buhari in 2015, where he had vowed to fix all the refineries upon assuming power.
President Bola Tinubu, in his inaugural speech on May 29, announced the removal of fuel subsidy, a decision that has generated mixed reactions in light of the significant increase in fuel prices nationwide.
Falana emphasized the importance of considering the impact on the people when implementing government policies.
He remarked, “Now that it has become evident that those who initially praised the removal of fuel subsidy are beginning to grasp the magnitude of the crisis it has caused, they are now pressuring the government to expedite measures to mitigate the effects of the removal.”
Furthermore, Falana called for a thorough investigation into the fraudulent practices associated with fuel subsidy management.