Tinubu: Some Opponents Want Me Dead Over Economic Reforms
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that some individuals angered by his administration’s economic reforms are wishing him dead, insisting that his policies have disrupted long-standing systems that benefited powerful interests.
Tinubu made the remark on Wednesday, May 20, during the launch of the book “The NADECO Story” in Lagos, an event celebrating Nigeria’s pro-democracy struggle.
He said reforms such as the removal of fuel subsidy and the unification of foreign exchange rates had affected those who previously profited from the old economic structure.
According to him, the reforms were necessary to stabilise the economy, even if they were unpopular with certain groups.
The President was represented at the event by former Ogun State Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba, who conveyed his message to the audience.
Osoba said Tinubu was aware of alleged attempts by some interests to destabilise the country due to the reforms, particularly those linked to foreign exchange trading and subsidy-related gains.
He added that the President believed those who benefited from the previous system were unhappy with the changes but remained committed to continuing the reforms.
Tinubu, who came into office in 2023, had announced the removal of petrol subsidy and later introduced foreign exchange unification policies aimed at simplifying Nigeria’s currency system.
While the government insists the measures are essential for long-term economic stability, they have also triggered widespread public debate and rising living costs.
Speaking further, Osoba said the President expressed appreciation to NADECO members and other pro-democracy activists for their role in restoring democratic governance in Nigeria.
He also noted that Tinubu sees the economy and national security as the major priorities of his administration, especially amid growing security concerns in parts of the country.
The event attracted several prominent figures, including Nobel Laureate Prof. Wole Soyinka and other senior political and civil society leaders.
