Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the Labour Party’s Lagos State Governorship candidate in the 2023 elections, has criticized the economic policies introduced by President Bola Tinubu, claiming they have exacerbated hardships for the average Nigerian.

Speaking on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Thursday, Rhodes-Vivour alleged that the benefits of the reforms, including the removal of the petrol subsidy and the floating of the naira, have been limited to the President’s close allies, bankers, and government officials.

“These policies have left ordinary Nigerians in unprecedented hardship,” he stated.

“Today, over 70% of people’s income goes to transportation and food, leaving little to nothing for other essentials like housing.”

He argued that the government’s reforms have yet to translate into tangible benefits for the majority of citizens.

Instead, he accused the administration of fostering a culture of wastefulness and luxury, which starkly contrasts with the economic challenges Nigerians face.

“How many Nigerians can truly say they are benefitting from these reforms? The answer is very few,” Rhodes-Vivour said.

“Meanwhile, the President’s friends, bankers, and those in government appear to be reaping the rewards.”Since assuming office on May 29, 2023, President Tinubu has implemented a series of economic measures aimed at addressing fiscal challenges, including subsidy removal and currency reforms.

However, critics like Rhodes-Vivour argue that these policies have yet to deliver meaningful relief to the masses, deepening concerns about inequality and mismanagement.