Nigeria’s Minister of Interior Pleas for Patience Amid Economic Woes

In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Sunday Politics, Nigeria’s Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, appealed to dissatisfied citizens to give President Bola Tinubu more time to tackle the country’s economic challenges. The minister warned that it is unrealistic to expect quick-fix solutions to a century-old problem and emphasized the importance of patiently building an economy.

According to Tunji-Ojo, it is unfair to judge President Tinubu within a one-year timeframe, considering the historical accumulation of mismanagement in the economy over the past 100, 60, 30 years. He emphasized that an economy cannot be rebuilt overnight and that bold decisions, such as the removal of petrol subsidies, are necessary steps towards growth and stability.

The minister, citing President Tinubu’s “Renewed Hope” campaign platform, pleaded for time to reboot the economy. He stressed that all avenues for engagement and dialogue should be explored before any nation-wide protests, ensuring a robust and effective approach to addressing the crisis.

Price inflation and economic hardship have left Nigerians struggling with escalating living costs, with prices of essential goods soaring in recent months. Many citizens are now preparing for a country-wide protest in August, sparked by deep frustration with the government’s response to their plight.

Tunji-Ojo expressed confidence in President Tinuba’s intentions, describing his decision as the start of a necessary surgical process designed to restore Nigeria’s economic health.

“As we are on the right step,” said the minister, “we urge citizens to be patient and continue dialogue to find a solution that prioritizes the nation’s well-being.” The plea for patience and cooperation underscores the need for a collective effort in navigating these treacherous economic times.