Alwan Hassan, a prominent All Progressives Congress chieftain and member of the presidential campaign council, has rejected assertions that citizens are facing severe starvation, arguing that political opponents are exaggerating current economic difficulties for political gain. Speaking during a television interview on Tuesday, Hassan addressed comments from the opposition characterizing the upcoming 2027 general elections as a battle between President Bola Tinubu and impoverished citizens.
He maintained that such descriptions fail to capture the true reality on the ground, asserting that the populace is not enduring the extreme scarcity being portrayed. "That is an opposition rhetoric. People are not that hungry," he stated during the programme.
When pressed on how he could maintain this perspective despite widespread public outcry over soaring inflation and the high cost of living, Hassan insisted his views are grounded in his everyday experience as a resident of the country. "I’m telling you, I live in Nigeria," he emphasized.
What evidence did he provide regarding food costs?
To support his stance, the politician noted that commodity prices are declining in various markets, indicating that current government policies are beginning to yield positive results. He added that agricultural producers have actually voiced concerns over declining market prices for their yields.
"People are not that hungry the way the opposition are portraying it. And I’ll say it anywhere. People are not that hungry," Hassan stated. "In fact, farmers are complaining because foodstuffs are down in the market. Why? Because this government is importing and reducing the prices."
How is the government addressing local production shortfalls?
When questioned on whether relying heavily on foreign agricultural imports signifies effective management of the sector, Hassan acknowledged that domestic output currently falls short of national demand. He clarified that importing food items is a temporary measure designed to bridge the production gap while long-term strategies to achieve food self-sufficiency are implemented.
"We cannot feed ourselves. No, but while we do things to now cover up on the gaps, well, in the meantime, we must import," he explained.
Despite these assertions, the nation continues to grapple with elevated food inflation and a stringent economic climate that leaves numerous households struggling to acquire daily necessities. In response, the current administration has initiated several schemes aimed at curbing shortages and lowering prices, which include direct market interventions and temporary food importation allowances.