By Milcah Tanimu

Former Ogun State Governor, Olusegun Osoba, spoke in an interview with Arise Television, addressing key economic issues in Nigeria. Osoba emphasized that Nigeria has limited alternatives to borrowing due to the empty treasury left by the previous administration. He defended current borrowing practices, stating their necessity to fill the financial gap inherited from the past government.

Osoba acknowledged the temporary nature of the current borrowing culture, stating that it is serving the country for the present and won’t continue indefinitely. He addressed the issue of cash hoarding, revealing President Bola Tinubu’s preparation of a document to encourage Nigerians to bring out hidden funds, potentially through an executive order to discourage such practices.

Explaining the delay in President Tinubu’s visit to victims of the Plateau State attack, Osoba clarified that it was not a token appearance but an opportunity for Tinubu to outline steps and actions to address the situation.

Osoba also recognized the role of opposition parties in creating critical engagements by visiting affected communities. He stated that the ruling party would analyze their statements and reactions.

On the subsidy removal, Osoba acknowledged short-term effects but suggested that they would not be prolonged, emphasizing the need for effective policies to mitigate any adverse impacts.