Afenifere, the Yoruba pan socio-cultural organization, urges Yoruba individuals to refrain from participating in the upcoming Nigeria Labour Congress protest scheduled for Monday.
Chief Reuben Fasoranti, the National leader of Afenifere’s faction, took the initiative to personally sign and issue the call in a statement.
Pa Fasoranti stated, “As the National Leader of Afenifere, and leader of the Yoruba, I address all and sundry today with a deep understanding of the challenges facing our dear country at this critical time.”
“The outcry over the hardship, hunger, and price hikes is not unexpected, yet we must come to terms with the realities of our national challenges which the present administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is striving to resolve”.
While acknowledging the difficulties faced by our citizens, the elderly gentleman implied the importance of recognizing these economic measures as integral to a broader strategy aimed at fostering sustained economic stability.
He lauded the government’s determination to implement these measures, citing it as evidence of its unwavering commitment to addressing the root causes of our economic woes, which have persisted from the mismanagement of previous years.
“As a responsible leader, I appeal to every Yoruba man and woman, young and old, and our fellow citizens across the nationalities, to exercise patience and refrain from engaging in protests or actions that may escalate tensions. Understandably, the immediate impact of these economic reforms is challenging to everyone, but it is crucial to allow the government the necessary time to realise the intended benefits”.
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“It is important to note that the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the Naira was not undertaken lightly, as we all know the great damage done to our national prosperity through the nefarious activities of the agents of darkness within the oil and financial sectors.”
These measures by the Federal Government, Afenifere continued, though painful in the short term, are designed to create a more sustainable economic environment that will benefit us all in the long run and it requires collective understanding and resilience from every citizen as we navigate through these challenging times.
He said, “We cannot afford a preference for the euthanasic approach of painless death of our nation, where we are propped up with loans and subsidies until a total collapse into a failed nation, while we have the opportunity of painful healing through treatment with multiple surgeries that will guarantee not just our survival, but restored health, vigour and thriving life. We must endure today’s hardship for tomorrow’s prosperity.”
“I implore you to trust in the government’s commitment to the welfare of our nation. Let us engage in constructive dialogue and contribute positively to the ongoing economic reforms. Join me in appealing for unity and understanding among our people. Together, we can weather this storm and emerge stronger as a nation”.
He assured that the elders are actively engaging with the government to address the concerns of their people.
He concluded by urging everyone to remain steadfast, patient, and united in the face of the challenges, expressing confidence that their collective resilience would pave the way for a more prosperous future.