Primate Ayodele Warns President Tinubu: “Nigerians are Hungry, You can’t Stop the Protest
Primate Elijah Ayodele, leader of INRI Evangelical Spiritual Church, has issued a stern warning to President Bola Tinubu, advising against attempts to the planned nationwide protest on August 1. halt
In a statement released by his media aide, Oluwatosin Osho, Ayodele highlighted the deep-seated bitterness and growing resentment among Nigerians towards the current administration due to escalating hardships. He emphasized that the protest is inevitable unless the government takes immediate action to reduce the prices of essential commodities such as food, fuel, and electricity.
“The current economic distress is affecting everyone, rich and poor alike,” Ayodele noted. “Many did not anticipate this level of hardship, despite warnings given before re-electing the APC government.”
Ayodele urged President Tinubu to disregard advisers who falsely claim that the country’s economic situation is improving. “People are very bitter and harbor significant resentment towards this government. Protests will occur in several states, though not all, and the government must act swiftly to mitigate their impact by addressing the high costs of living and insecurity.”
The clergyman stressed the severity of the situation, describing it as more than just an ordinary protest. “There is profound hardship across the country, and the government appears out of touch with the people’s suffering. This protest is born out of hunger, pain, and a demand for better governance.”
Ayodele further criticized the government’s approach, stating, “The administration operates on assumptions rather than realistic assessments, making it difficult to connect with or understand the people’s pain. To avert the protest, the government must take concrete actions to alleviate the economic strain.”
He concluded by calling for better welfare for Nigerians, noting that the recent increase in the minimum wage is insufficient. “Nigeria deserves better welfare. The government should strive for achievements that genuinely improve people’s lives and for which the populace will be thankful.”
