Economic Hardship Deepens Under Tinubu — Olawepo-Hashim

Economic Hardship Deepens Under Tinubu — Olawepo-Hashim

A former presidential candidate and chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Dr Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, has argued that Nigeria’s economy is performing worse under President Bola Tinubu than it did during the administrations of Olusegun Obasanjo and Goodluck Jonathan.

Speaking during a television interview, Olawepo-Hashim cited economic indicators to support his claim, noting that Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has shrunk significantly in recent years despite policy reforms introduced by the current administration.

According to him, Nigeria’s economy grew steadily under past administrations, reaching about $267 billion at the end of Obasanjo’s tenure and peaking at over $574 billion under Jonathan. He said the current GDP estimate of around $230 billion reflects a sharp economic contraction that has weakened the country’s global standing.

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Olawepo-Hashim blamed the decline on what he described as ineffective fiscal and monetary policies, arguing that the reforms implemented so far have failed to translate into economic growth, job creation, or improved living standards for Nigerians.

He also expressed concern over the continued depreciation of the naira, saying it has worsened inflation, reduced purchasing power, and deepened the cost-of-living crisis across the country.

The PDP stalwart further questioned claims that President Tinubu’s record as former Lagos State governor should be viewed as a benchmark for national economic management, insisting that Nigeria’s current challenges require more inclusive and productive policies.

His comments come amid growing public debate over economic hardship, currency instability, and policy direction, as Nigerians assess the performance of the Tinubu administration ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Economic Hardship Deepens Under Tinubu — Olawepo-Hashim