The Executive Secretary of the Nigerian Shippers Council, Barrister Pius Akutah, has said President Bola Tinubu did not receive accurate information regarding the recent killings in Benue State.
Speaking to journalists at his residence in Makurdi, Akutah defended the President’s intentions, stating that Tinubu’s response was based on flawed briefings. He urged Nigerians, particularly Benue residents, to remain patient and supportive.
“The speed with which Mr. President responded and the content of his statement showed he was misbriefed. When the governor later gave an interview, people began to understand the context of the President’s remarks,” Akutah said.
He emphasized that Tinubu is committed to addressing the country’s insecurity and broader political challenges, particularly in states like Benue. “He is firm, honest, and sincerely focused on building a legacy for Nigeria,” Akutah added.
Highlighting recent government efforts, Akutah pointed to the removal of fuel subsidies and the push for economic diversification as examples of Tinubu’s decisive leadership. “He said it, he did it. On day one, he removed the subsidy and stood his ground despite backlash,” he noted.
Akutah also credited the administration’s policies for helping stabilize the naira and shifting the economy towards the non-oil sector. “Today, the non-oil sector is growing because of the President’s direction,” he said.
He acknowledged public concerns over rising poverty and hunger but attributed them to the consequences of past government failures. “It’s like removing something that’s been stuck painfully — there’s discomfort now, but healing will follow,” Akutah explained.
According to Akutah, Tinubu is not paying lip service to Nigeria’s challenges, but rather laying the groundwork for long-term recovery and growth.
