Posted by Chinenye on Tue 04th Aug, 2026 - tori.ng
Seyi Makinde has taken aim at the federal government’s economic direction, questioning key decisions that have shaped Nigeria’s financial landscape.
(Seyi Makinde. Photo by Nigeria Stories)
Oyo State Governor and presidential candidate of the Allied Peoples Movement, Seyi Makinde, has criticised the economic policies of the Bola Tinubu administration, arguing that some of the reforms have worsened hardship for Nigerians.
Makinde specifically faulted the removal of the fuel subsidy and the naira float, saying the policies have contributed to the economic difficulties currently faced by citizens.
The governor made the remarks while speaking on the 2027 presidential election, urging Nigerians to consider the APM as an alternative political platform.
He argued that implementing major economic reforms simultaneously placed additional pressure on Nigerians.
The removal of the petrol subsidy and changes to the foreign exchange regime have remained among the most consequential economic policies introduced under Tinubu, with the administration consistently defending the reforms as necessary to address structural weaknesses, reduce government expenditure and reposition the economy for long-term growth.
Critics, however, have pointed to rising living costs and hardship experienced by households following the reforms, with Makinde now joining a growing list of political figures challenging the federal government's economic direction.
Makinde's criticism comes within the context of his campaign for the 2027 presidential election under the APM.
He urged Nigerians to support his political platform, suggesting that the country needs a different approach to economic management.
His remarks are expected to draw political attention, given that he is simultaneously serving as a state governor while preparing to contest against the ruling political establishment.
Economic performance is expected to be one of the dominant issues in the 2027 presidential campaign, with the cost of living, fuel prices, inflation, employment and purchasing power likely to feature prominently as political parties seek to win over voters.