President Bola Tinubu has called on the youth to reconsider their planned protests against the federal government’s economic reforms.
This appeal was made in Abuja on Monday during a meeting of the National Council of Traditional Rulers, where Tinubu was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
“Some individuals with sinister motives are exploiting the economic hardship to mobilize citizens, especially youths, to stage protests,” Tinubu stated.
He emphasized that during this critical period of economic reform, Nigerians need to show patience and commitment to the success of the reforms.
Tinubu also urged Nigerians to reflect on past experiences where crises and violence threatened the nation’s diversity and peace.
“Let’s learn from the experiences of India and Sudan. We are a country with more than 200 million people. Therefore, we can’t afford to have this kind of situation,” he said.
He highlighted that the current administration has implemented various policies and programs to alleviate the economic hardship experienced by Nigerians. These include the procurement of Compressed Natural Gas vehicles, the introduction of a student loan scheme, the distribution of palliatives, and the provision of tractors, fertilizers, and other agricultural inputs.
Tinubu also reaffirmed the federal government’s efforts to combat insecurity in the country.
“As custodians of our culture, I urge you to carry the message of peace to the young people and parents in your domains,” he said.
In his speech, the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’adu Abubakar III, identified dialogue as the best option for resolving any conflict.
“What dialogue can’t resolve, no amount of violence can resolve. There must be peace.
Also speaking, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Enitan, pointed to patriotism among citizens as the key driver toward national development.
“Patriotism is synonymous with national cohesion. Therefore, any attempt to destroy national cohesion must be resisted,’’ he said.
According to him, Tinubu has been working hard to put the country in proper shape despite the challenges.
“Nigeria does not belong to any section of the country; it belongs to all of us,’’ he said.
In his address, the chairman, Code of Conduct Tribunal, Dr Mainasara Umar-Kogo, described traditional institutions as the most effective local administration since the pre-colonial era.
He said some administrative reforms in the country had relegated their roles and subjected them to ineffective political values.
“We need their roles restored in our constitution so that we can preserve our socio-cultural values.”
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