Doyin Okupe Defends Tinubu’s Economic Policies, Sees Signs of Recovery Amid Afenifere Criticism

Response to recent criticism from Afenifere, Dr. Doyin Okupe, a former Presidential Spokesperson and ex-Director-General of Peter Obi’s Presidential Campaign, has come out in defense of President Bola Tinubu’s economic policies. Okupe believes that signs of economic recovery are becoming evident despite the ongoing challenges.

During an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Thursday, Okupe addressed concerns raised by Afenifere, a well-known pan-Yoruba socio-cultural group. Afenifere had released a communique after its quarterly meeting in Ogun State, expressing grave worries about the state of Nigeria’s economy and describing it as nearly collapsing.

The communique, signed by Afenifere’s Deputy Leader, Chief Oladipo Olaitan, and Deputy Secretary-General, Mr. Alade Rotimi-John, underscored the severe hardships faced by Nigerians due to the current economic conditions.

Acknowledging Afenifere’s concerns, Okupe argued that the criticism came after significant progress had already been made. “It is commendable that Afenifere, as a socio-cultural and now political organization, has maintained its nationalistic approach by critiquing the government, even though a Yoruba person, Asiwaju Tinubu, is the current President,” Okupe remarked.

Okupe continued, “While it is true that the nation is grappling with substantial socio-economic challenges due to the bold economic policies implemented to address issues inherited from the previous administration, the current economic indicators are showing signs of recovery. An observable turnaround is now becoming clear.”

He praised Afenifere’s consistent nationalist stance but emphasized that the positive changes in the economy should also be acknowledged. According to Okupe, the efforts being made under Tinubu’s leadership are starting to yield results, signaling a potential improvement in Nigeria’s economic landscape.

This response highlights the ongoing debate about Nigeria’s economic direction and the varying perspectives on President Tinubu’s policies. While challenges remain, Okupe’s comments reflect an optimistic view of the economic recovery process.