Veteran entertainer and activist, Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy,Area Fada has expressed concern over the implementation of the current administration’s economic reforms, warning that the approach is hurting ordinary Nigerians.
In a post on his official X page on Friday, Charly Boy acknowledged that removing fuel subsidies and stabilizing the Naira are important steps for economic recovery but faulted the way the policies are being executed.
According to him, the government’s focus appears to be misplaced — prioritizing the allocation of subsidy savings to governors, increasing salaries for selected officials, and initiating new infrastructure projects while neglecting the maintenance of existing ones.
Charly Boy also lamented the rising cost of living, noting that food prices have tripled since the administration took office. He emphasized that, as former finance minister and current WTO Director-General, Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, has pointed out, effective “social safety” measures are crucial in cushioning the impact of such reforms — measures he says are currently missing from the government’s plan.
“I can argue that Obi and Atiku also intended to remove subsidy and stabilize our currency, but I’m certain their approach would have been different,” Charly Boy wrote.
The activist called for a more thoughtful and people-centered discussion on the way forward, urging policymakers to focus on supporting vulnerable Nigerians bearing the brunt of the reforms.