Nigerians Confirm Food Is Becoming Cheaper, Says Oshiomhole, Defends Economic Reforms
Senator Adams Oshiomhole has sparked widespread reactions after stating that some Nigerians are now saying food prices are becoming cheaper, amid ongoing debate over the impact of the federal government’s economic reforms.
The former Edo State governor made the remarks during an appearance on Channels Television, where he defended the administration’s policy choices and dismissed claims that recent reforms have worsened the living conditions of ordinary Nigerians.
Responding to a question on whether the government’s promised radical reforms were implemented at the expense of the average citizen, Oshiomhole said the reforms were deliberate and necessary.
“The truth is we promised radical reforms,” he said.
When pressed on concerns that the policies had negatively affected everyday Nigerians, the senator questioned the basis of such claims.
“Who are the average persons? You pick these things from the mouth of the people,” he said, challenging the programme’s anchor to provide direct evidence.
“Have you gone to see people complaining? There are Nigerians now saying food is becoming too cheap,” Oshiomhole added.
The senator further argued that many of the criticisms directed at the government’s economic policies were speculative and not supported by verified data.
According to him, public discourse on the reforms often relies on assumptions rather than concrete evidence from across the country.
Oshiomhole’s comments have generated mixed reactions, particularly on social media, as Nigerians continue to grapple with high food prices, inflation and the broader cost-of-living crisis.
Several economic analysts have maintained that while certain market adjustments may occur in isolated areas, food inflation remains a major challenge nationwide.
The federal government has consistently defended its economic reforms, including subsidy removal and foreign exchange liberalisation, describing them as painful but necessary steps toward long-term economic stability.
As debate continues, citizens and policy experts remain divided over the real-time impact of the reforms on household welfare, with calls growing for clearer data and targeted interventions to cushion vulnerable populations.
