Former Osun lawmaker urges support for President Tinubu amid Nigeria's economic hardship

Former Osun State legislator Olatunbosun Oyintiloye has appealed for encouragement rather than criticism of President Bola Tinubu as the country grapples with economic hardship. Speaking to journalists in Osogbo on Sunday, 25 October 2026, the APC chieftain said the president needs the support of Nigerians while he works to stabilise the economy.

Oyintiloye, who represented the Obokun constituency in the Osun State House of Assembly, argued that Tinubu inherited a battered economy and has been working “round the clock” to address the crisis. He stressed that the president should not be blamed for all current difficulties and that opposition politicians should refrain from using the hardship as a weapon ahead of the 2027 presidential election.

Background

Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu has pursued a series of structural reforms aimed at improving Nigeria’s macro‑economic fundamentals. Key measures highlighted by Oyintiloye include the removal of the long‑standing fuel subsidy and the decision to float the naira, allowing its value to be determined by market forces. Both reforms were presented as necessary steps to curb fiscal deficits and attract investment, although they have also been described as “tough” and have caused short‑term pain for many Nigerians.

Oyintiloye noted that, despite the difficulty of these policies, they have begun to produce positive outcomes. He cited the administration’s broader achievements across various sectors as evidence of progress, though specific data were not provided. The former lawmaker also referenced the president’s social intervention programmes aimed at vulnerable groups, urging further review and strengthening of these initiatives.

Why it matters

The appeal comes at a time when economic hardship remains a dominant issue in public discourse and a potential flashpoint in the lead‑up to the 2027 general election. By urging opposition figures to stop weaponising the crisis, Oyintiloye seeks to shape the political narrative around Tinubu’s reform agenda. If the president’s policies are perceived as delivering tangible benefits, the incumbent’s re‑election prospects could be bolstered.

For ordinary Nigerians, the call for encouragement reflects the reality that many continue to experience severe hardship despite the reforms. Oyintiloye acknowledged ongoing suffering and called on the government to intensify efforts to ease the burden on the masses, particularly through improved social safety nets.

The stance also underscores intra‑party dynamics within the All Progressives Congress. As a senior party chieftain in Osun State, Oyintiloye’s public endorsement of Tinubu signals alignment with the president’s agenda and may influence party cohesion ahead of the next electoral cycle.

What happens next

Oyintiloye’s statements did not outline specific policy actions but emphasized the need for continued review of social programmes and strengthening of economic measures. He expressed confidence that Tinubu would secure a landslide victory in the 2027 presidential election, citing the administration’s achievements. No further official response from the presidency or opposition parties was reported in the sources.

The appeal adds to the broader debate on Nigeria’s economic recovery path, with stakeholders awaiting concrete evidence of the reforms’ impact as the election approaches.