Nigeria’s federal government has blamed the prevalent economic hardship in the country on what it described as the rot it inherited from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP)’s 16-year rule.
Lai Mohammed, Minister of Information and Culture who stated this at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, noted that the All Progressives Congress-led Federal Government has been unable to resolve some of the country’s challenges because of the rot.
According to the minister, the country would, for instance, have been able to benefit from the rise in the cost of petrol but the PDP never repaired any of the refineries while in power.
He noted that the Dangote refinery would be inaugurated this year and will be evidence of the business friendly environment created by the President Buhari.
“The PDP government never repaired the refineries. So, what we have today is that we are still importing. This administration has inaugurated one modular refinery, we have three on the way and we hope that the,” he said.
“It is like someone that someone destroyed something for 16 years and they expect us in four years to clean up the mess. We are trying our best. We are rising to the challenges but it is not a bed wetter that should be abusing a washman.”
While stating the many achievements of the Buhari regime, Mohammed said it was funny that the PDP which held Nigerians hostage for many years could now pose as the rescuers.
The minister advised Nigerians not to be deceived by the PDP, adding that a kidnapper could never rescue a victim.
“Those who brought the country to its knees are now accusing those working hard to repair things of non-performance. They said they are ready to rescue Nigeria. Pray, where do kidnappers rescue their victims? These same guys who kidnapped the fortunes of their country are suddenly posing as rescuers. Caveat Emptor! Buyers beware! Nigerians Beware!” the minister stated.
On the lamentations by Nigerians regarding the rising inflation and soaring food prices, Mohammed said its not just Nigerian problem, as according to him, it is the case in other countries, too.
He argued, however, that Nigeria had been able to achieve food security and is now feeding West-Africa.