Reduce fuel price, address food shortage, Kaduna cleric urges Tinubu

Sheikh Ahmad Tijjani Umar, a prominent Islamic cleric and former governorship aspirant in Kaduna State, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate measures to alleviate the economic hardships Nigerians face, including reducing the fuel pump price and reopening borders to allow food imports.

Speaking in Abuja, Umar emphasized that successive increases in fuel prices, following the removal of the subsidy, have sharply raised the cost of food and other essential items, worsening conditions for average citizens, particularly civil servants who struggle with low wages and rising daily expenses.

Umar stated, “The best way to address this is for President Tinubu to reduce the price of fuel through a sincere and transparent return of subsidy, and to open borders for food imports to ease escalating hardships.”

He highlighted the urgency of the situation, noting that many civil servants earn only around N72,000 a month, which has become insufficient due to skyrocketing prices and high transportation costs.

Additionally, Sheikh Umar urged Nigerians, especially youth, to turn to prayer and perseverance, stressing that while rebuilding is a lengthy process, unity and faith can provide strength.

“Our current leadership is committed to restoring Nigeria’s stability, but rebuilding takes time,” he said, calling on citizens to be patient.

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He also advocated for structural economic changes, urging President Tinubu to focus on the transparent and responsible management of public resources rather than symbolic cuts to government spending alone, which he argued would not be enough to address Nigeria’s needs.

“Real change comes from showing the public how the billions allocated are used to benefit the people,” he added, noting that addressing insecurity, especially in northern Nigeria, remains crucial for overall economic stability and food production.

Looking ahead to the 2027 general elections, Umar hinted at a possible shift in his political alignment, stating he may consider moving from the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) to a new political platform.