Nigeria, May 6 -- As Nigeria grapples with soaring inflation, declining purchasing power, and rising poverty, one question looms large: Is the Tinubu administration truly on the path of reform, or are Nigerians being forced to endure pain without a plan?

Supporters of the current administration argue that economic hardship is a necessary byproduct of bold structural reforms, such as removing fuel subsidies and floating the naira. They insist that these steps, while painful, are vital for long-term economic recovery. But this line of reasoning falls apart under serious scrutiny, especially when these policies are executed without foresight, cushioning, or empathy.

Let's start with the twin policies that have become the hallmark of Tinubu...