Calling for a constructive dialogue between the government and leaders of the upcoming protest against economic challenges faced by Nigerians, the Oodua People’s Congress has urged President Bola Tinubu to take immediate action to reverse the recent electricity tariff hike and lower food and fuel prices as a sign of goodwill.
In a statement released by its President, Otunba Wasiu Afolabi, the OPC emphasized the importance of peaceful protests and the necessity of engaging in discussions rather than resorting to violence.
Afolabi stressed, “A hungry man is an angry man. The government needs to reduce the prices of essential commodities like food, electricity, and fuel to promote peace and demonstrate its commitment to the welfare of the people.”
Additionally, the Yoruba socio-cultural group urged Tinubu to issue an Executive Order to open up the borders in the South-West and South-South regions to facilitate the influx of cheaper food supplies.
Furthermore, the OPC President called for a concerted effort to revitalize the nation’s refineries to enhance local production of fuel and address the issue of costly petroleum products.
Questioning the prolonged neglect of the refineries, he remarked, “If Aliko Dangote can build a refinery within a decade, why have our four refineries been struggling since 1999 when civilian rule was reinstated? There is a mystery that needs to be resolved.”
Emphasizing the need to root out corrupt elements hindering progress in the country, he urged the government to identify and prosecute those responsible for impeding the well-being of Nigerians.
Meanwhile, the Liberty Movement of Nigeria appealed for patience with the Tinubu administration, advocating for dialogue as a means to address societal grievances and prevent unrest.
Echoing the importance of dialogue, the group highlighted the President’s previous successful mediation in resolving the minimum wage dispute with Organised Labour as a demonstration of effective leadership.
Finally, as preparations for the nationwide protest continue, security agencies have deployed personnel to ensure safety during the demonstrations, with the hashtag “EndBadGovernanceInNigeria” gaining momentum as Nigerians eagerly anticipate the unfolding events on Thursday.