The Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, Senator Ajibola Basiru, has stated that while inflation exists, Nigerians are exaggerating the extent of the challenges.

During an interview on Channels Television on July 24, 2024, Basiru expressed disagreement with the inflation rate reported by the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS).

On July 15, the NBS announced that the inflation rate had increased to 34.19%, confirming the economic difficulties faced by Nigerians.

Basiru acknowledged the existence of the inflationary challenges but disputed the severity of the situation as reported by the government agency.

"I know that there are inflation challenges but I disagree. it is not up to that level. I don't agree with your figure. I agree there are inflationary challenges, but I do not agree with the figures you’ve quoted,” he said.

According to Basiru, he does not believe that there is a failure in the management of the economy.

“I must admit things are challenging I will tell you that. Things are challenging is different from things are getting worse.

Regarding the area of food security challenges, Basiru mentioned efforts by the administration to address the issue by releasing food from the south into the market.

“We know there are challenges in the area of food security and one of the cardinal things this administration is doing is to address the challenges in food security. We are putting a lot of efforts into releasing food from the south into the market.

“That shows that we know there is a challenge but that is different from showing me a figure that I did not see before I got here on national television, wanting me to admit to what I did not see.”

His comments come in response to the planned protests by Nigerian youths scheduled for August 1-10 to voice their frustrations with the economic hardships.

The interview has sparked reactions from Nigerians.

dr_buchi: There will never be a solution if there was never be problem

timeless_cyril: APC were all out during goodluck regime to protest with full force why are they scared of protest now.

ekua_paulla: You dont agree with his statistics yet you don't know yourself.....such a shame

dapoxplain: Inflation na global issue everywhere e Dey happen. Let’s tackle it head on in Nigeria together.

lilian_lianchi: Ahh, what a shame. They pretend they don't know about the problem, then how can it be solved. This is sad.....

iamstepee: Hmmm even Tinubu advisers don’t really believe things are very hard and inflation so high so how will Tinubu believe

iamaardol: When herdsmen was busy destroying the lives of hard working farmers, the govt kept a blind eyes. Today, nobody wants to farm again

emeka_: If he accept that inflation has gone up, Tinubu go fire am. E no wan vexed him boss. Ndi puppets

the.menvault: Workings with no meaningful results. This government has no true direction

Watch the interview below;