It is very unfortunate how deeply we make life difficult for ourselves as a nation and as a people. The latest is the arbitrary increase in the price of fuel and the current directive from the Central Bank of Nigeria on new naira notes. In recent weeks, Nigerians have been caught in the middle of a plummeting economy and a crippling insecurity situation.
What’s even worse is the attitude of our leaders who seem unaffected by the countless incapacities we face on a daily basis. The exchange of old naira notes for new ones is a major problem across the country. The lack of a conducive economic policy guideline has cost Nigeria and Nigerians so much in recent months, not to mention the horrendous economic setbacks of recent years.
The naira exchange, while necessary, should not have brought much economic inconvenience to the people it is meant to serve. Equally painful is the unchecked rising cost of premium motor spirit, also known as gasoline. It is very irresponsible on our part that, despite having crude oil, we have little or no access to gasoline at affordable prices.
Governments at all levels must take responsibility and ensure that everything is done with the interests of the masses at the forefront. The economic reality is extremely harsh and we all have to fight to improve our lot. The fuel situation needs to be addressed and improved. The new naira implementation should also be done with the interest of the masses in mind.
Jude Onwubiko, Asaba
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