Nigeria’s President Bola Tinubu called on Sunday for a suspension of protests against the rising cost of living, urging citizens to see this as an opportunity for dialogue. These were his first public comments since widespread protests erupted last week due to economic hardship.
Amnesty International reported that at least 13 people were killed in clashes with security forces during the first day of protests on Thursday. Police acknowledged the use of excessive force and confirmed seven fatalities as of Saturday. Among the dead were four individuals killed by an explosive device during a march in northeastern Borno state, two struck by a car, and another shot by a guard during the looting of a shop.
In a televised address, President Tinubu appealed for calm and an end to the violence, which has spread to several states since the protests began. He expressed his willingness to engage in dialogue with the protesters.
“My dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration that drive these protests, and I want to assure you that your government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens,” Tinubu stated.
The protests were primarily organized in response to economic hardship and perceived government mismanagement. Demonstrators have called for a cut in petrol prices and electricity tariffs, among other demands.
Since assuming office in May 2023, President Tinubu has defended his economic reforms, which include reducing petrol and electricity subsidies and devaluing the currency to combat years of economic mismanagement.
Under his leadership, government revenues have more than doubled to 9.1 trillion naira ($5.65 billion) in the first half of the year, while 68% of revenue is now allocated to debt servicing, down from 97% before he took office.
Tinubu has emphasized increased spending on infrastructure, scholarships for university students, and housing projects across Nigeria’s 36 states as part of his reform agenda.
President Tinubu concluded his address by highlighting the need for unity and cooperation to overcome the nation’s economic challenges. “We must work together to rebuild and redirect our nation’s path,” he said, reiterating his commitment to implementing reforms that address citizens’ needs while ensuring economic stability.
