As Nigerians prepare to protest against the escalating hunger and hardship in the country, prominent traditional rulers have voiced their opposition, deeming such demonstrations counterproductive.
During a crucial meeting in Abuja, the royal fathers emphatically rejected the idea of a nationwide protest against hunger, arguing that it could lead to significant economic disruption, peace disturbances, and potential loss of lives and property. Instead, they urged Nigerians to adopt dialogue as a means to resolve the prevailing issues.
This stance was articulated in a resolution passed at the conclusion of their Abuja meeting, which was shared with the press on Friday. The traditional rulers acknowledged the severe unemployment and economic challenges driving youth restiveness and security issues but recognized the federal and state governments’ various youth empowerment programs aimed at addressing these challenges.
They called on all levels of government to ensure the effective implementation of economic programs designed for poverty alleviation, infrastructural development, and job creation. Furthermore, the rulers emphasized the need for a renewed commitment to combating corruption in all its forms.
The royal fathers also expressed support for the establishment of price control and commodity boards to regulate the prices of food items and other essential commodities. They urged the government to bolster the manpower and resources of the military, police, and other paramilitary agencies to enhance national security.
Additionally, they advocated for a more robust approach to tackling cybercrimes, human trafficking, and other fraudulent activities through relevant government agencies.
The traditional rulers commended the government for initiatives such as palliatives, the student loan scheme, and the approval of a N70,000 minimum wage for Nigerian workers. However, they appealed to the government to address the high cost of living by tackling the soaring prices of petroleum products, electricity tariffs, and agricultural inputs.
The communiqué was signed by the Chairman of the Coordinating Committee of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, His Royal Highness, Alh. (Dr.) Yahaya Abubakar, the Etsu Nupe.
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