The Osun Masterminds, TOM, has raised concerns over persistent economic hardship across the country.
Speaking at the monthly state-of-the-state address, the Executive Director of The Osun Masterminds, Prof. Wasiu Oyedokun-Alli, said Nigerians continued to struggle under inflation, high living costs, and weak social support systems.
He noted that the effects of fuel subsidy removal, rising food prices, and unstable foreign exchange rates had combined to worsen living conditions for ordinary citizens.
The group stated that despite several interventions by government at different levels, the hardship remained widespread, with palliatives considered insufficient to meet citizens’ needs.
TOM also expressed concern over accountability issues in Osun State, particularly at the House of Assembly, where large expenditures were recorded without corresponding completion of visible projects.
It said abandoned projects at the Assembly complex further deepened public mistrust in governance and called for greater transparency in public spending.
On security, the group highlighted ongoing concerns over the performance of the Osun Amotekun Corps, stressing the need for urgent reforms to prevent lapses as insecurity spreads across neighbouring states.
TOM acknowledged a slight reduction in fuel prices in some parts of the country but maintained that the current cost remained burdensome for most Nigerians.
The group urged the Federal Government to intensify efforts to further reduce petrol prices and ease transportation and production costs nationwide.
It also raised concerns over proposed tax reforms, noting that public apprehension and lack of clarity could worsen citizens’ economic anxiety if not properly addressed.
According to TOM, effective governance must prioritise citizens’ welfare over policy speed, especially at a time of widespread economic pressure.
The group observed that political activities were gradually overshadowing governance as attention shifted towards the 2026 Osun governorship election.
It warned political actors against prioritising power struggles over service delivery, stressing that unchecked politicking could heighten tension and insecurity.
TOM called for issue-based politics focused on development, unity, and the protection of lives and property during the election period.