Oba Hameed Oyelude, the Olowu of Kuta in Ayedire Local Government of Osun, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to reopen the nation’s border with Benin Republic.

Mr Oyelude, who made the appeal in a chat with journalists on Sunday in his palace in Kuta, said the reopening of the border would ease the burden of Nigerians economically.

“At the time the Benin Republic border was closed, the Federal Government was protecting the economy of the country.

“But I want to urge the president to look at the possibility of reopening the border to ease the pain of Nigerians,” he said.

Mr Oyelude also urged Nigerians to be patient with the president, noting that he meant well for the country by removing the subsidy on fuel.

“The gain of the removal of fuel subsidy is coming, but it may not be immediate. And that is why we need to be patient with the President.

“Let us give this administration time. We will surely get there,” the traditional ruler pleaded.

He urged the federal government not to completely take every advice and policy of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).

Mr Oyelude said although there was nothing wrong in domesticating IMF ideas and policies, the same must be done in a way that will suit the country.

“There is an economic downturn and it is a challenge that we are going through, but I believe we will overcome it as a country,” he said.

(NAN)