Food prices have surged across Nigeria as citizens engage in panic buying ahead of today's nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest, The ELLIPTICAL NEWS reports.
Despite last-minute efforts by the Federal Government to halt the protest, organizers remain resolute, demanding a reduction in the cost of living and a reversal of certain government policies, notably the removal of the petrol subsidy. The subsidy removal, compounded by ongoing security issues in farming regions, has escalated transportation costs and food inflation.
In an urgent attempt to prevent the demonstration, Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, held an emergency press conference on Wednesday, urging Nigerians to avoid participating in the protest. Other top officials, including the Minister of Information and National Orientation Mohammed Idris, Budget and Planning Minister Atiku Bagudu, Economy Minister Wale Edun, and presidential media aide Bayo Onanuga, echoed this plea.
The officials highlighted the Tinubu administration's people-oriented policies and programs, seeking the public's understanding and cooperation. Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun also addressed journalists, and the National Assembly cut short its recess to hold a plenary session. Speaker of the House of Representatives Tajudeen Abbas engaged with youths at a town hall meeting, urging the protest organizers to opt for dialogue with the government.
Senator Akume emphasized the government's recognition of the right to protest but expressed concerns about potential hijacking by criminal elements. He appealed to all Nigerians to prioritize peace and progress, acknowledging the right to peaceful protest but urging caution and vigilance.
He outlined the Tinubu administration's interventions over the past 14 months, including a Wage Award of N35,000 for workers, a new National Minimum Wage Act of N70,000, and efforts to enhance the financial autonomy of local government areas. Additionally, he noted the creation of a stand-alone Ministry for Youth and the successful implementation of the N35 billion Nigerian Education Loan Fund.
Despite these efforts, the protest against hunger and bad governance proceeds today, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by the nation.
