By editor
The Arewa Youth Consultative Forum (AYCF) has cautioned the Federal Government against taking Nigerians for granted following the recent sharp increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), commonly known as petrol.
In a statement, AYCF President-General Yerima Shettima said the current situation suggests that the government may have lost touch with the realities faced by Nigerians.
Shettima expressed disappointment that the same government, which had urged citizens to avoid protests by promising to improve their lives, has now imposed further hardship.
"Even the blind can feel the hardship, and the deaf can hear the cries of poverty and hunger across the country. To add more pressure on Nigerians is highly insensitive and must be addressed," Shettima said.
He added that food prices are now beyond the reach of ordinary Nigerians, and the recent minimum wage increase to N70,000 is inadequate to meet the basic needs of one person, let alone a family. "This increase can barely cover transportation costs to work for a month," he said.
Shettima called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's administration to reconsider its approach, urging the government to allow Nigerians to breathe. He warned that the growing anger and frustration among Nigerians could lead to unpredictable consequences.
"The government’s primary responsibility is the welfare of its citizens. The recent fuel price hike has caused a ripple effect, raising the cost of food, transportation, and other essentials," he said.
Shettima urged the Federal Government to prioritize the welfare of the people and take swift action to prevent potential unrest.
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