Former Governor of Ekiti State, Dr. Kayode Fayemi, has delivered a scathing critique of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, citing widespread economic hardship, dilapidated infrastructure, and a growing sense of disillusionment among Nigerians.
Speaking in Yoruba at a public event captured on video and obtained by DAILY GAZETTE Fayemi did not mince words as he highlighted the suffering of ordinary Nigerians and the lack of visible progress from the federal government.
“Except we are deceiving ourselves, Nigerians are not happy with the Federal Government because of hunger and lack of money,” Fayemi stated.
He referenced deteriorating federal infrastructure in Ekiti, specifically naming key routes such as Efon Alaaye through Erio and Omuo Ekiti through Ilasa to Ayedun Ekiti, which he said had become near-impassable, causing immense hardship for commuters.
Fayemi also revealed a long-standing grievance over unreimbursed funds his administration spent on a major road project during his tenure.
“The Federal Government said they didn’t send us to do the road, so no refund was made,” he said, referring to the Ado-Iyin road, a project his government undertook at a cost of N18–20 billion.”
“If they had refunded the money, wouldn’t the governor have used it to do phase two of the road?”
The former governor made the comments in the presence of top Ekiti officials including Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye and lawmaker Tope Longe.
While Fayemi acknowledged the intent behind President Tinubu’s economic reforms especially the controversial removal of fuel subsidies, he sharply criticized the government’s approach, saying it lacked preparation and failed to protect vulnerable Nigerians.
He described the reforms as “precipitate,” noting that they were implemented “without adequate cushioning measures”, which has worsened living conditions for many.
Fayemi also flagged delays in the disbursement of funds to federal ministries and agencies, which he warned could further hamper development and governance.
“Good intentions alone are not enough,” he cautioned.
