Ali Modu Sheriff Defends Tinubu’s Economic Reforms

Former Borno State Governor Ali Modu Sheriff has praised President Bola Tinubu, saying those who do not acknowledge his efforts to move Nigeria forward should not criticise his leadership.

Speaking during Channels Television’s Politics Today on Monday, Ali Modu Sheriff said President Bola Tinubu had introduced important reforms aimed at improving the country’s future and giving states greater financial independence. He argued that the President’s policies were designed to strengthen Nigeria and create more opportunities for state governments.

According to Sheriff, “What President Tinubu did in this country to ensure this country moves forward, if you don’t give him kudos, you shouldn’t condemn him.”

He defended the removal of the fuel subsidy, saying the decision helped the country avoid serious financial difficulties. Sheriff stated, “If at the time Tinubu said there is no fuel subsidy if they didn’t revolt Nigeria won’t have paid its bills for that month. Not only that, he didn’t do that and take the money for himself, he gave it to the states.”

He also urged Nigerians to examine the increase in monthly allocations to state governments. “Google and see the 10 highest allocations of states, look at the allocation of states, some states receive as much as N55 billion in one month,” he said. Reflecting on his own time in office, Sheriff added, “During my 8 years as governor, the total I received was about N150 billion. Tinubu has done a lot, he wanted the country to progress and freedom for the state.”

Addressing insecurity, Ali Modu Sheriff acknowledged that the Federal Government has a primary responsibility to protect citizens. However, he argued that state governments also have a constitutional role. He said, “Talking about insecurity, yes it’s the responsibility of the Federal government but what you don’t realize it that it’s also the responsibility of the state under the concurrent list, the state has the responsibility of security.”

Do you agree with Sheriff’s assessment of President Tinubu’s reforms and the role of states in tackling insecurity?