The Oba of Yoruba of Kano, Amb. Murtala Alimi Otisese Adetimirin I, has called on President Bola Tinubu to take decisive actions with a view to addressing the concerns of Nigerians.
This was just as the monarch urged all Nigerian youths to suspend the ongoing protests as according to him,”Your voices have been heard loud and clear by the authorities.
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Oba Otisese made the call in a statement, a copy of which was made available to The Punch on Sunday.
He said,”The protest if it continues risks further infiltration by hoodlums and looters, which will only lead to more destruction of lives and properties, as witnessed in the last 72 hours.
“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 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.
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” 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 said.
He noted that the infiltration often leads to chaos, overshadowing the genuine intentions of the protesters and resulting in destruction of lives and property.
“In this context, it not only harms innocent citizens but also inflicts severe damage on our already fragile economy.
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“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,” he said..
