Vice-President Shettima Urges Responsible Protest Amid Economic Hardship.
In a call for measured action, Vice-President Kashim Shettima has urged Nigerians to express their concerns about the prevailing economic challenges in a responsible and mature manner. Speaking during the 29th pre-Ramadan lecture organized by the University of Lagos Muslim Alumni in Lagos, Shettima emphasized the need for discretion amid the growing economic difficulties faced by the nation.
The economic landscape shifted nine months ago when the Tinubu administration discontinued subsidies on petrol, aiming to redirect saved funds towards infrastructural expansion. Additionally, the administration unified foreign exchange rates, inadvertently causing collateral instability in the value of the Naira and amplifying the burden on Nigerians as food prices soared.
Franklin Magada Commends Governor Oborevwori and Serendib Capital UK
Organised Labour, represented by the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, has responded with at least four strikes and numerous protests, attributing these actions to the government’s perceived failure in providing adequate measures to alleviate the hardship.
However, Vice President Shettima has called for caution, stating, “We expect that Nigerians should express their feelings over our circumstances in a responsible and mature manner. We are also a deeply religious people, and we believe in the powers of faith and prayers.”
Addressing the severe economic challenges anticipated during the approaching holy month of Ramadan, Shettima, represented by his Special Adviser on Political Matters, Dr Hakeem Baba-Ahmed, appealed to citizens not to interpret the hardships as punitive measures by the government. He acknowledged the hardships faced, attributing them to missed opportunities and failures in the past to capitalize on the nation’s great potential.
Shettima stressed the necessity for a change in direction, stating, “We have to fix this country, and failure to do this is not an option. Our administration does not plan to make the lives of Nigerians more difficult. Nor do we intend to deceive fellow citizens that the change in direction and the expected outcome can be achieved without pain or sacrifices.”
Recognizing the interconnected nature of Nigeria’s challenges, he called for solutions genuinely informed by a Nigerian context rather than external influences. Shettima appealed to alumni to support the administration in its efforts to turn the nation around, highlighting the importance of criticism and critical scrutiny in achieving progress.
As citizens navigate these challenging times, Vice-President Shettima concluded with a prayer for relief from hardship and discipline in times of abundance during the upcoming Ramadan fast, emphasizing unity and collective resilience.
Stay informed with Ejes Gist News – Your Source for Credible News in Nigeria Now.
