Afenifere, a Pan Yoruba socio-political organisation, has called on the people of the South-West region to shun nationwide protests against the economic hardship under President Bola Tinubu’s watch. 

The call came after the Nigeria Labour Congress scheduled a nationwide protest for February 27 and 28 over the hardship and deteriorating security challenges.

On Sunday, Afenifere stated that the outcry over the hardship, hunger and hikes in food prices was not unexpected in the country. 

The foremost Yoruba organisation in a statement signed by its leader, Reuben Fasoranti, said the people must come to terms with the realities of the national challenges which President Tinubu’s administration was striving to resolve.

Mr Fasoranti, who acknowledged the hardship, said it was important to recognise that some economic measures by Mr Tinubu were strategies to restore economic prosperity and stability. 

“The government’s commitment to implementing these measures is a testament to its dedication to addressing the root causes of our economic challenges, inherited from the ills of the 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 Tinubu’s economic reforms is challenging to everyone, but it is crucial to give the government the necessary time to realise the intended benefits,” he said.

The Afenifere leader further stated that the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the naira was not undertaken lightly by Mr Tinubu. 

He added that Nigerians should also understand the damage done to the country’s national prosperity through the nefarious activities of the agents of darkness within the oil and financial sectors. 

“These measures by the Federal Government, though painful in the short term, are designed to create a more sustainable economic environment that will benefit us all in the long run. It requires collective understanding and resilience from every citizen as we navigate these challenging times. 

“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,” he said.

While imploring Nigerians to trust in Mr Tinubu’s commitment to revamping the nation, Mr Fasotanti advised the people to engage in constructive dialogue and contribute positively to the ongoing economic reforms. 

He also appealed for unity and understanding among the people, saying that with togetherness, they can weather the storm and be stronger as a nation.