Borno State Governor, Babagana Zulum, has said nationwide protests will bring disaster upon Nigerians, implored Nigerians not to engage in protests for it can exacerbate the country’s current hardships. 

In a town hall meeting held in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Mr Zulum addressed a diverse audience of religious leaders, political figures, trade union representatives, students, and civil society members. 

Mr Zulum stressed the importance of maintaining the fragile stability in Borno after the state had endured 13 years of insurgency but was now witnessing a gradual return to peace. 

He said, “Any break of law and order will be a disaster for us. I am appealing not only to the people of Borno State but to all Nigerians to shun any protests that would only bring further hardship.”

The governor urged citizens to engage in “positive dialogue” rather than resorting to demonstrations. He reassured that both the federal and state governments are committed to alleviating the economic difficulties currently affecting the populace.

“Let us engage in positive dialogues. The Federal and state governments are doing everything possible to reduce the hardships Nigerians are enduring,” Mr Zulum added.

His remarks come in the wake of planned nationwide protests scheduled for August in response to the severe economic challenges that have intensified since President Bola Tinubu assumed office. 

Upon assuming office, President Tinubu inherited a debt profile of N46 trillion from the previous administration, according to the Debt Management Office. 

Although economic hardship existed prior to his presidency, Mr Tinubu’s policies, including the removal of the fuel subsidy and the decision to float the naira, have led to a surge in petrol prices from N145 to N710 per litre, and the naira has plunged to approximately N1,500 to the dollar.

While economic experts and the International Monetary Fund have praised these measures as courageous reforms, the resultant spike in food prices has triggered protests in several states, including Niger, Osun, Ibadan, and Lagos, Mr Tinubu’s home state.

Surveys conducted by the Peoples Gazette showed that food prices soared by more than 100 per cent nationwide since Mr Tinubu’s inauguration on May 29, 2024. Yet, the minimum wage has not been increased despite calls from the Nigeria Labour Congress.

In March, the economic strain led to a raid on a government-owned warehouse in Abuja, where residents looted food supplies. In Suleja and Zaria, trucks carrying foodstuffs were attacked as widespread hunger continued to plague the nation.