The Initiative for Good Leadership and Development (IGLD) has called on the federal government to address the escalating hardship plaguing the nation.
In a press statement released Monday, Public Relations Officer of the group, Mr. Tasi’u Muhammad Pantami, highlighted the grave concerns over the economic, social, and security challenges currently facing Nigeria.
The statement said the economic strain on citizens has reached unprecedented levels, prompting calls for a national protest to demand immediate government intervention.
IGLD attributes the spike in hardship to several government policies, including the removal of fuel subsidies, increased electricity tariffs, currency devaluation, and the soaring costs of governance.
“The removal of fuel subsidies has led to a significant rise in the cost of living, placing an unbearable burden on the average Nigerian who struggles daily to make ends meet,” Pantami stated.
The group stated that the hike in electricity tariffs has compounded the challenges, straining the financial capacities of households and businesses alike.
The devaluation of the naira has also been a major concern, diminishing the purchasing power of Nigerians and exacerbating poverty levels.
IGLD criticised the government’s cost of governance, calling it “callous” amidst growing hunger and poverty, which they warn could provoke public outrage.
“Security issues also remain a critical concern, with rising insecurity impacting farming and livestock production, leading to food scarcity and heightened poverty.”
The group stated the urgent need for government intervention to prevent peaceful protests from being hijacked by those driven to desperation by economic hardships.
The group also called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, and people of conscience to support their appeal, urging state governors and legislators to contribute towards resolving the socio-economic crisis.
“It is not too late for the government to handle the situation and bring solace to our people,” Pantami said.