Afenifere, a pan-Yoruba socio-political organization, has pleaded with Yoruba people not to take part in the nationwide protests that are starting in several regions due to the current economic crisis.
The six southwestern states of the nation—Osun, Ogun, Ondo, Lagos, Ekiti, and Oyo—are home to the Yoruba people.
Nonetheless, citizens of the states known as Yoruba as well as those in Kano, Ogun, Niger, Sokoto, and Osun have protested about the growing expense of living.
However, Reuben Fasoranti, the head of the organization’s elders caucus, stated on Sunday that Nigerians must be understanding of the current circumstances while noting the suffering endured by the populace.
He claims that despite their difficulty, the Federal Government’s economic policies are intended to increase wealth across the nation.
The statement read in parts, “As a responsible leader, I appeal to every Yoruba man and woman, young and old, and our fellow citizens across the nationalities, to exercise patience and refrain from engaging in protests or actions that may escalate tensions.
“The outcry over the hardship, hunger, and price hikes is not unexpected. However, we must come to terms with the realities of our national challenges, which the present administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is striving to resolve.
“While acknowledging the hardships faced by our people, it is important to recognise that these economic measures, although difficult, are part of a larger strategy aimed at restoring economic prosperity and stability to Nigeria.
“The government’s commitment to implementing these measures is a testament to its dedication to addressing the root causes of our economic challenges, inherited from the ills of the previous years,” he added.
In addition, he urged Nigerians to have faith in the government’s “commitment to the welfare of our nation,” stating that everyone will ultimately profit from the Federal Government’s programs.
“Let us engage in constructive dialogue and contribute positively to the ongoing economic reforms. Join me in appealing for unity and understanding among our people. Together, we can weather this storm and emerge stronger as a nation.
“It is important to note that the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the Naira is not undertaken lightly, as we all know the great damage done to our national prosperity through the nefarious activities of the agents of darkness within the oil and financial sectors.
“These measures by the Federal Government, though painful in the short term, are designed to create a more sustainable economic environment that will benefit us all in the long run.
“It requires collective understanding and resilience from every citizen as we navigate through these challenging times,” the Afenifere leader stressed.
