Senator Ali Ndume, Chief Whip of the Senate, has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently address the security and food crises affecting Nigeria. Speaking to journalists on July 10, 2024, at the National Assembly Complex in Abuja, Ndume expressed concerns that Tinubu is unaware of the country’s dire situation due to being “caged” and “fenced off” by plutocrats.
Ndume criticized the president for his perceived failure to tackle poverty, insecurity, hunger, and other pressing issues. He warned that the federal government’s inaction on the food crisis could lead to severe consequences, emphasizing the lack of a food reserve and the critical nature of the crisis. He urged President Tinubu to open his doors to those who would provide honest feedback and to actively engage with the public.
Former President of the Senate, Ahmed Lawan, also warned that the ongoing food crisis could trigger mass protests. He noted that the removal of the petrol subsidy has led to a more than 300% increase in the cost of basic food items. Lawan stressed the need for collaboration between the legislative, executive, and judicial branches to address and mitigate the rising food prices and electricity tariffs to prevent potential unrest.
Ndume and Lawan’s comments highlight the urgency of the situation and the need for immediate and effective governmental action to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians.