Politics
BATCONOMICS 101: The Paradox of Palliatives Amid Fuel Subsidy Removal
How do you spend more on palliatives in a move to save the economy via fuel subsidy removal?
In a recent tweet that has sparked discussion and debate, renowned media personality Iruefi XXL, with the Twitter handle @IruefiNG and Managing Director of Reportera News Nigeria, cleverly coined the term “BATCONOMICS.” This term combines “BAT,” which stands for Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the APC candidate who was controversially declared president of Nigeria, with “CONOMICS,” derived from the word economics. The tweet highlights a critical issue surrounding the country’s subsidy policy and sheds light on some intricate web of economic implications it entails. This article delves into the complexities of BATCONOMICS, exploring the interplay between subsidy removal, palliative measures, government borrowing, and the impact on Nigerian citizens.

The Subsidy Conundrum
At the heart of BATCONOMICS lies the precarious balance between saving public funds through subsidy removal and mitigating the resulting hardships faced by the populace. The government’s decision to eliminate subsidies, particularly in the petroleum sector, has been a subject of much contention and has far-reaching consequences. Proponents argue that subsidy removal reduces the burden on public finances, promotes market efficiency, and creates room for infrastructural development. However, critics emphasize the adverse effects on the cost of living, inflation, and the overall welfare of Nigerians.
Understanding Palliatives in BATCONOMICS
In the tweet, Iruefi XXL astutely points out the irony of saving billions on subsidies while allocating even more substantial sums for palliative measures. According to the tweet, the government aims to cushion the effects of subsidy removal by spending 576 billion naira on palliatives. This allocation appears contradictory at first glance, as it surpasses the purported savings of 400 billion naira from subsidy removal. This raises questions about the efficiency and effectiveness of such palliative measures and their ability to alleviate the hardships experienced by the citizenry.

Mr. Bola Tinubu announced that N8,000 will be paid to 12 million Nigerian families for six months to mitigate the effects of petrol subsidy removal. Multiplying the monthly support of N8,000 by the number of beneficiary families and the duration of the program gives us:
N8,000 * 12,000,000 * 6 = N576 billion
Therefore, the total allocation for the entire duration of the program is N576 billion, as mentioned in the tweet. This significant sum underscores the scale of the financial commitment required to implement the proposed palliative measures aimed at cushioning the effects of subsidy removal on Nigerian families.
Borrowing to Offset Savings
The tweet goes on to reveal that an additional 176 billion naira will need to be borrowed to cover the apparent savings achieved through subsidy removal. This borrowing not only highlights the government’s dependence on external financing but also raises concerns about the long-term sustainability of such fiscal practices. Borrowing to compensate for savings begs the question: Is the removal of subsidies genuinely beneficial if it necessitates increased debt and potential financial instability?
The Impact on Nigerians
BATCONOMICS has significant implications for ordinary Nigerians. While the removal of subsidies may benefit the economy in the long run, the immediate consequences are felt by citizens struggling with rising prices and reduced purchasing power. The disparity between the supposed savings and the funds allocated for palliatives raises doubts about the government’s ability to effectively alleviate the burdens imposed on the populace. The tweet serves as a wake-up call, emphasizing the need for comprehensive and sustainable measures to support Nigerians during times of economic transition.
Conclusion
The tweet by Iruefi XXL brings to light the contradictions and challenges inherent in the government’s approach. As the nation grapples with the economic implications of subsidy removal, it is imperative that policymakers heed the concerns raised by citizens and work towards a sustainable, inclusive, and equitable solution. The road to achieving a balance between economic progress and the welfare of Nigerians may be complex, but it is a journey that must be undertaken for the betterment of the nation and its people.
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Politics
African Union Takes Action: Republic of Niger Suspended Amidst Political Unrest
In a decisive move that reverberated across the continent, the African Union (AU) announced the suspension of the Republic of Niger from its membership ranks.
This momentous decision was unveiled during the African Union’s Peace and Security Council meeting held in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Tuesday, August 22.
African Union:Picture Source- Pinterest
The suspension stems from the recent political turmoil that engulfed the nation, with the African Union pointing to the coup orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani on Wednesday, July 26. As part of a series of sanctions imposed on the francophone West African country, the Republic of Niger faced the repercussions of its internal upheaval.
The African Union’s stance was uncompromising, as it made it clear that Western nations seeking to meddle in African affairs should refrain from interfering. This firm message was directed from the heart of Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, where the AU’s call for autonomy echoed loudly.
The events leading up to Niger’s suspension unfolded against a backdrop of political uncertainty and unrest. The coup in Niger, orchestrated by Gen Abdourahamane Tchiani, prompted the Afican Union to take action. Their decision to suspend Niger was not taken lightly and was ratified during the Peace and Security Council meeting in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on August 22.
The aftermath of the military takeover in left President Mohamed Bazoum in captivity, held under the close watch of the juntas in Niger. Despite international pressure, the release of the president and his family remains elusive. This tense situation compelled the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) to intervene, imposing sanctions on Niger and establishing a deadline for the initiation of military intervention by the sub-regional body’s standby forces.
The suspension of the Republic of Niger from the African Union serves as a stark reminder of the continent’s commitment to upholding stability and safeguarding democratic governance. The swift response underscores the African Union’s dedication to maintaining order and security within its member states, sending a resounding message to the global community about the importance of respecting Africa’s sovereignty.
Politics
Peter Obi: “I Campaigned For Presidency Because I Can Say It Any Day, I Will Solve The Problem Of Nigeria”
In a recent tweet that has caught the attention of many, @MissPearls shares an inspiring declaration made by former Anambra state governor and Labour Party presidential candidate, Peter Obi. According to @MissPearls, Peter Obi proclaimed, “I campaigned for Presidency because I can say it any day, I Will SOLVE THE PROBLEM OF NIGERIA. All these confusion everywhere can BE SOLVED, and I am PREPARED for it”

Peter Obi’s bid for the presidency in the recent elections stirred considerable excitement and garnered support from diverse quarters, particularly the youth demographic. The former governor is known for his progressive ideas and pragmatic approach to governance, which resonated with many Nigerians who sought change and effective solutions to the country’s myriad challenges.
Despite his extensive support and well-articulated vision, Peter Obi’s presidential ambitions faced formidable opponents in the election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) released results that placed him behind the All Progressives Congress (APC) candidate, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who emerged as the winner, and Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), who came second. However, these results were met with skepticism due to apparent electoral irregularities that marred the integrity of the process.
In response to the controversial election outcome, both Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar filed legal challenges against the INEC’s declaration. This move underscores their commitment to upholding the democratic process and ensuring that the voice of the electorate is accurately reflected. As the election Tribunal Judges prepare to deliver their verdict, Nigeria watches with bated breath, eager to witness justice being served.
Meanwhile, the administration of Mr. Bola Ahmed Tinubu has taken significant policy actions since assuming office. The removal of fuel subsidies and the decision to float the Naira have triggered mixed reactions across the nation. While these measures may be intended to foster economic stability and growth, the immediate consequences have been felt by everyday Nigerians. The cost of living has surged, and the socio-economic effects on the rich and the poor have become more pronounced.
As the Nigerian population navigates these shifts, the aftermath of the election and the ensuing governance strategies offer a critical juncture for evaluating the nation’s trajectory. The voices of discontent, expressed by citizens facing the brunt of these policies, highlight the necessity for leaders to prioritize the well-being of the populace while pursuing economic advancements. It is essential for the government to strike a balance between fiscal prudence and safeguarding the interests of the vulnerable segments of society.
The policy changes implemented by Bola Tinubu have shed light on the delicate balance between progress and the welfare of the people. As the nation waits for the tribunal’s judgment and the dust settles on the recent election, Nigeria stands at a crossroads, with the potential to reshape its future trajectory and address the systemic challenges that have held it back for far too long.
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Politics
Youths in Kano Defy Police Ban to Protest Alleged Tribunal Bribery
Hundreds of determined youths in Kano took to the streets, defying a police ban, to protest what they perceive as attempts to manipulate the state election petition tribunal. This incident unfolded against the backdrop of a ban on protests by the Commissioner of Police, Usuani Gumel, following revelations of alleged plots to obstruct justice through financial inducement in legal proceedings.

The rally, which unfolded outside the state government house, saw impassioned youths brandishing placards with messages that underscored their commitment to justice and the integrity of the electoral process. Their actions were sparked by concerns over an alleged plan to bribe the state election petition tribunal, casting a shadow over the fairness of the process.
The ban on protests was issued in response to recent revelations made by Justice Flora Azinge, who unveiled purported schemes by lawyers to disrupt the course of justice through financial incentives. The Commissioner of Police cited “confirmatory intelligence products” as the basis for this decision, leaving a contentious atmosphere surrounding the freedom of assembly and the right to peaceful protest.
This ban, however, failed to deter the resolute youths who carried a variety of placards conveying their strong stance against corruption, manipulation, and injustice. The slogans they chanted resonated with their determination to safeguard the sanctity of the electoral process and uphold transparency in governance.
Among the messages displayed, one placard caught the eye with its direct callout: “Gandollar, stop spoiling the name of Tinubu.” This highlights the allegation that financial impropriety is tainting the reputation of key political figures.
In a video circulated online, the enthusiastic protesters chanted slogans that echoed their deep-seated concerns. Chants of “No to corruption,” “No to injustice,” and “No to manipulation” reverberated through the crowd, embodying the youth’s unwavering commitment to fair and accountable governance.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf praised the peaceful conduct of the protesters and assured them that their concerns would be relayed to President Bola Tinubu. This gesture recognizes the role of the youth in shaping political discourse and underscores the importance of their voices in the pursuit of a just society.
In conclusion, the youths in Kano have seized the moment to voice their concerns and demands for an unbiased electoral process. Their defiance of the police ban serves as a reminder that public sentiment cannot be easily suppressed. As this incident unfolds, it raises important questions about the delicate balance between freedom of assembly, legitimate protest, and maintaining public order. It also underscores the critical role of the youth in shaping the political landscape and demanding accountability from their leaders.
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