The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has advised Nigerians to seize every opportunity to eat free food as they grapple with the country’s rising economic challenges.
Akpabio made the statement during a plenary session, where he said, “Times are difficult, and wherever you see free food, please endeavour to avail yourself,” according to a video that went viral on Sunday.
The remark, made in a jovial tone, drew laughter from other senators despite the serious economic difficulties Nigerians are currently facing.
The country has witnessed increased hardship due to recent government policies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration, including the removal of the fuel subsidy, the floating of the naira, and increased taxation. These policies have led to inflation, with food prices skyrocketing beyond the reach of many Nigerians.
On Wednesday, fuel prices were adjusted across major cities. Fuel stations in Abuja raised prices from N897 to N1,030 per litre, while Lagos stations increased theirs to N998 from N868 per litre. This marked the second increase within a month, compounding the economic burden.
Akpabio has previously been criticised for making controversial remarks. In July, while addressing a conference in Port Harcourt, he mocked Nigerians planning to protest against bad governance, saying, “Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be here eating.”
Nigerians have expressed mixed reactions to his recent comments, with some interpreting them as insensitive amidst the worsening economic situation.
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