The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has issued a strong admonition to the Federal Government, urging it not to underestimate the patience of the Nigerian populace.
This warning comes in light of significant hikes in the cost of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly referred to as petrol.
In response to these price increases, the President General of AYCF, Yerima Shettima, emphasized that the current administration appears to be increasingly disconnected from the realities faced by citizens.
Shettima lamented that the government, which once implored Nigerians to refrain from protests with the promise of improving their lives, has instead exacerbated their hardships, a development he described as deeply unfortunate.
“It is evident to all, including those who are blind and deaf, that the levels of poverty and extreme hunger in the nation are staggering. To add to this situation reflects a profound insensitivity that must be addressed urgently,” he stated.
“Currently, basic food prices are beyond the reach of the average Nigerian, and the recent increase in the minimum wage to N70,000 is nothing more than a facade. Given the prevailing circumstances, this amount is insufficient to meet the needs of even a single individual, let alone a family, as it barely covers transportation costs for a month.”
Shettima urged the Federal Government to reassess its approach to the multitude of challenges at hand, asserting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must facilitate an environment where Nigerians can thrive. He warned that the current state of affairs is driving frustrated and hungry citizens toward a breaking point, with unpredictable consequences.
He implored the government, which bears the primary obligation of ensuring the welfare of its citizens, to fulfill its responsibilities. It is essential for Nigerians to witness tangible benefits from the government’s renewed agenda aimed at enhancing their quality of life.
Shettima concluded by calling for immediate and decisive action from the Federal Government to prevent potential unrest among the populace.
