Philip Agbese, a House of Representatives member from Benue State, has responded to former Sokoto State Governor Attahiru Bafarawa’s open letter criticizing President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

In a statement on February 28, 2025, Agbese accused Bafarawa of misrepresenting Tinubu’s governance and failing to acknowledge necessary reforms.
He defended Tinubu’s approach to security, stating that the administration inherited longstanding challenges and had taken significant steps, such as appointing new military leaders and strengthening regional cooperation.
Agbese also dismissed claims that Tinubu was suppressing opposition, arguing that his government was inclusive and based on merit.
On economic reforms, Agbese highlighted the removal of fuel subsidies as a difficult but necessary decision to curb corruption and redirect resources to development. He rejected Bafarawa’s assertion that Tinubu was pushing for a one-party state, emphasizing the president’s background in opposition politics.
Urging Bafarawa to adopt a more objective stance, Agbese maintained that despite challenges, Tinubu’s leadership was steering Nigeria toward recovery.
