Tinubu tasked to address Nigerians amid nationwide protest

The Oba of Yoruba in Kano, Ambassador (Dr) Murtala Alimi Otisese Adetimirin 1, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the nation through a direct broadcast to calm the situation amid nationwide protests.

The monarch urged the President to acknowledge the grievances of the protesters and outline tangible steps to address their concerns.

He also appealed to Nigerian youths to suspend the protests, warning that continued demonstrations risk infiltration by hoodlums and looters, leading to more destruction of lives and properties.

The Oba acknowledged the legitimate rights of citizens to protest but emphasised the need for dialogue instead of violence.

He urged the President and his administration to engage directly with protest leaders, citing disjointed communication from government agents as exacerbating the agitation.

The call comes as Nigeria grapples with economic hardships, including inflation, low purchasing power, and currency devaluation.

The Oba emphasised that violent protests are not the solution and called for a transition from street protests to negotiating tables, prioritizing dialogue and the safety and well-being of citizens.