In a candid session with journalists in Iyin Ekiti, Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele spilled the beans on the federal government’s upcoming offensive against economic saboteurs, set to kick off in 2024. The announcement comes amid concerns over exchange rates and attempts to make the Naira scarce.
Bamidele emphasized that the National Assembly aims to pass the 2024 appropriations bill on December 30, necessitating lawmakers to cut short their holidays for a swift legislative process.
The senator detailed the government’s strategy against economic saboteurs, stating, “From next year, the federal government will go after those making life difficult for Nigerians, charging and prosecuting them for economic sabotage. Those manipulating currency and commodity prices will face consequences.”
Despite the challenges, Bamidele assured Nigerians of a “Renewed Hope” era under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, highlighting plans for significant investments in agriculture and agro-allied industries to transform the national economy.
Addressing concerns about fuel subsidy removal, Bamidele defended the move, stating it was in the people’s best interest, as the subsidy primarily benefited a select few in the oil and gas industry. He acknowledged short-term impacts but expressed confidence in the decision’s long-term stabilizing effect on the economy.
As the year closes, the National Assembly aims to present the 2024 appropriation bill to President Tinubu for assent on January 1, 2024, to kickstart implementation.
