Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of worsening poverty and eroding Nigeria’s middle class through what he described as “harsh neoliberal policies.” Falana argued that despite Tinubu’s recent acknowledgment of widespread hardship, his economic reforms have intensified the suffering of millions.

The Senior Advocate of Nigeria faulted the government’s privatisation agenda, saying it contradicts the fight against income inequality and disproportionately benefits a small elite. He urged the administration to review policies influenced by the IMF and World Bank, warning that most Nigerians can no longer afford three daily meals. Falana also stressed that poverty alleviation requires targeted social welfare programmes, particularly in rural areas.

Since taking office in May 2023, Tinubu has implemented sweeping reforms, including fuel subsidy removal and currency liberalisation, aimed at stabilising the economy. However, these moves have triggered soaring inflation, high living costs, and widespread hardship. Falana called on the President to give legal backing to social investment initiatives like N-Power, GEEP, school feeding programmes, and cash transfers, insisting that urgent policy reversal and welfare protections are essential to prevent further economic decline.