Yes!!! I exclaimed as I threw a punch in the air. The news of subsidy removal in Nigeria suddenly lightened my mood. Alas! A major step to the ‘change’ we have been waiting for and the best news about Nigeria in recent days.
Like a poke in the ribs to keep moving; the decision seems to give a glimpse of hope. The apparently dark, endless and frustrating tunnel, suddenly has a flash of light to encourage anyone about to throw in the towel. (A number of us are only trying to keep the hope alive anyway) Perhaps, we will get there some day.
Although, it is said that ‘a stitch in time saves nine’, we no doubt have more than nine stitches to make right now but it is not too late.
It reminds me of a write up I did in 2012 (http://adebisiadeyemi.blogspot.fr/2016/05/my-nigeria-beyond-subsidy.html) during the ‘occupy Nigeria’ rally (which never saw the light of day by the way – until now). We should have taken this step a long time ago but after 4 bleak years, it looks like we have all woken up.
I am certain we would not have as many people opposing the brilliant decision this time – it is called ‘learning the hard way’.
Nigerians are smart, very smart but we really need to be forward thinking. Time to fight for the future and not just the present. And definitely, Nigeria would come out as gold after being tried in this fire!
I love Nigeria! I believe in Nigeria! God bless Nigeria!
Link to the old write up on subsidy: http://adebisiadeyemi.blogspot.fr/2016/05/my-nigeria-beyond-subsidy.html
2 comments:
Nice writeup, I wish I can agree with you, but the issue isn't as simplistic. I don't think that's the first step in correcting the wrongs, but should have been part of the last steps. The masses often bear the brunt of cuts in many societies while the upper class' interests are often protected.
Early signs..... check the value of Nigeria against the dollar how it performs in the coming days...
Observe the behaviour of the masses and the organised labour.
Observe the response of retailers, transporters and general sellers.
Observe the effect on the pocket of an average Nigerian whose salary hasn't increased by much in 5 yrs, while petrol price has jumped exponentially in the same period.
Good policies can be bad if used at the wrong time. Timing and overall picture is crucial for an effective government. Thank you for raising this thought.
I am very excited that this caught your attention. A great privilege to get a comment from your brilliant mind - I always admire and respect your views by the way.
A response to your comment - I must say I see your point. However, the 'masses' in question here sometimes buy PMS (black market) for over N145 because of the unavailability and the necessity of it (which is a topic for another day)
Also, I think this move would stir up an anger in all of us. We would start to demand accountability. If our money is no longer spent on subsidy, there must be a physical & clear evidence of where it is going.
No better time to start blocking the loopholes. We do it one at a time and we will get there
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