KEY POINTS

• Yakasai commends Tinubu reforms as food and fuel prices drop.
• Northerners are urged to support the administration’s development agenda.
• The elder statesman extends condolences to late national leaders.

Elder statesman and First Republic politician Alhaji Tanko Yakasai has praised Nigerians for their support and expressed optimism about the ongoing economic reforms under President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

Speaking to journalists in Kano on Sunday, Yakasai highlighted the positive impact of Tinubu reforms, noting improvements in the prices of essential commodities and fuel.

“From some of the reports I received, the prices of basic foodstuffs have been coming down. Unlike before, families can now afford to buy essentials such as rice, beans, maize, sorghum, and other food items needed to feed their homes,” he said.

Yakasai also noted improvements in fuel prices, which he believes will ease the financial burden on Nigerians.

“I was also made to understand that the cost of petrol at filling stations has been coming down. In some places, I was told that petrol is now being dispensed for about N850 per litre instead of the earlier N1,150. This is good for transportation costs and will make movement easier for Nigerians,” he added.

Northerners urged to support Tinubu’s administration

As a key supporter of Tinubu’s 2023 election bid, Yakasai encouraged Northerners to rally behind the president’s administration, assuring them that the region has not been marginalized in national affairs.

According to Punch, he emphasized that the Tinubu government has laid out numerous developmental and people-centered policies designed to benefit Nigerians, particularly in the northern region.

“I believe Tinubu’s best is yet to come. His government is committed to introducing developmental policies that will positively impact the lives of Nigerians. The North will not be left behind,” Yakasai said.

He also called on politicians and citizens to engage in constructive criticism and meaningful contributions to governance, noting that informed political engagement would strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.

“Constructive criticism is vital for the growth of our democracy. Nigerians, especially politicians, must contribute meaningfully to governance to enrich the nation’s political landscape,” he added.

Condolences to late South-West and South-South leaders

During the interview, Yakasai also extended his condolences to the families of the late Chief Ayo Adebanjo and Chief Edwin Clarke, as well as the people of the South-West and South-South regions, over their passing.

“The loss of these two great and patriotic Nigerians, who were not only my political associates but also personal friends, is a great tragedy for the nation,” Yakasai said.

He prayed for Allah’s mercy and eternal rest for the deceased leaders, emphasizing their significant contributions to Nigeria’s political development.

Yakasai’s remarks reflect a commitment to fostering national unity, economic growth, and democratic progress while honoring the legacy of past leaders.