The Oba of Yoruba of Kano, Ambassador (Dr)Murtala Alimi Otisese Adetimirin 1, has called on president Bola Ahmed Bola Tinubu that in view of hunger nationwide protest going on, should take decisive action in calming the situation,by address the nation through a direct broadcast, acknowledging the grievances of the protesters and outlining tangible steps to address their concerns.
, This was just as the monarch urged “all Nigerian youths, to suspend the ongoing protests, adding that “Your voices have been heard loud and clear by the authorities.
Continued protests risk further infiltration by hoodlums and looters, which will only lead to more destruction of lives and properties, as witnessed in the last 72 hours.
Oba Otisese who made this known in a statement signed,a copy made available on Saturday to press in Kano, however , said that
” I acknowledge the legitimate rights of Nigerian citizens to protest against grievances, as enshrined in our constitution – the ground norm of our country.”
Furthermore, it is crucial that the President and his administration engage directly with the leaders of the protest movement.
It appears that the communication from various government agents and functionaries has been disjointed, exacerbating the agitation among the protesters.
According to him” This fundamental right is a cornerstone of our democracy, enabling citizens to express their dissatisfaction and seek redress.
But he however stated that ” It is
evident that Nigeria is currently experiencing difficult and trying times.
He added that ” The skyrocketing inflation, both for headline and food, alongside the low purchasing power of the citizens, has placed immense strain on households across the country.
The devaluation of our currency, the Naira, coupled with the removal of oil subsidy, has exacerbated the economic hardship faced by many Nigerians.
The distress is palpable, and the voices of the aggrieved are resonating throughout the nation.
While the grievances are legitimate and the hardships undeniable, noting that “I believe that violent protests are not the ultimate solution to our woes.
Historically, protests in our country have had the propensity to turn violent, primarily due to the involvement of a significant number of uneducated individuals who infiltrate the ranks of those who seek to demonstrate peacefully.”Oba Otisese affirmed
This infiltration often leads to chaos, overshadowing the genuine intentions of the protesters and resulting in destruction and harm.
In this context, I call that this not only harms innocent citizens but also inflicts severe damage on our already fragile economy.
The safety and well-being of our people are paramount. We must not allow the situation to deteriorate further.
It is time to transition from the streets to the negotiating table. Dialogue, rather than violence, should be our path forward.