Minister of State for Defence, Bello Matawalle, has issued a stern warning against making unwarranted and unguarded utterances directed at President Bola Tinubu’s government regarding the pressing issues of insecurity and escalating food prices.
Matawalle, in his message, conveyed through the ministry of defence spokesperson, Henshaw Ogubike, stressed the need for restraint in public discourse concerning the government.
He said:
“Unguarded utterances coming from some sections of the populace are incisive and destructive and can exacerbate tensions and lead to violence in our beloved nation.
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“Mr Tinubu is trying his best in tackling the economic challenges being experienced by Nigerians. The President and his team are tirelessly working to alleviate the burdens on the Nigerian populace, advising the agents of disunity to refrain from further unwarranted utterances, as such will have consequences.”
The backdrop for his cautionary stance is the mounting frustration caused by economic hardships and the surge in food costs.
Recall that the National Bureau of Statistics recently reported that Nigeria’s inflation rate rose to 29.90 percent in January 2024, up from the 28.92 percent recorded in December 2023.
Across various states, including Niger, Kano, and Osun, citizens took to the streets to protest the exorbitant prices of essential food items.
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) even declared a two-day nationwide protest to draw attention to the critical issue.
Fuji musician Wasiu Ayinde “KWAM1” and Nollywood actor Olaiya Igwe, both of whom supported Tinubu during his campaign, have raised alarm bells about the escalating costs of commodities in the country.
Adding to the chorus of concern, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, who leads the Northern Traditional Council, warned that the combination of rising poverty, hunger, and insecurity could potentially ignite widespread discontent and lead to a revolt against Tinubu’s administration.
In response to the challenges, the President has instructed the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security to release approximately 42,000 metric tonnes of grain, including maize, millet, and garri, across the nation.
Furthermore, he directed the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu, the State Security Service, and the Nigeria Police to pursue those hoarding food supplies.
