Former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd), has raised alarms over the soaring cost of living in Nigeria, warning that the situation is “getting out of control” under the administration of President Bola Tinubu.
Speaking at his residence in Minna, Niger State, during a meeting with the Campaign for Democracy and Human Rights led by Abdullahi Mohammed Jabi, Abubakar expressed deep concern over the economic hardships many Nigerians face. He noted that basic necessities like food and transportation have become unaffordable for a growing number of families.
“Everybody is crying about this hardship, and it seems to be getting out of control. People cannot afford three square meals,” Abubakar lamented.
He highlighted the increasing cost of fuel and rising school fees, which, combined with other economic pressures, have made life increasingly difficult for the average Nigerian.
“The issue of transportation, the hike in fuel, the hike in school fees for the children, and the lack of funds in everybody’s pocket is making life difficult for everybody,” he said.
Abubakar revealed that a forum he is a part of has proposed three critical recommendations to the federal government in response to the worsening crisis. He stressed that palliative measures alone will not suffice, urging the government to prioritize making food affordable for the masses.
“There is a need for the government to flood and saturate the communities with food. Let them buy food and sell it at lesser prices to the people, so that people can afford these essential items based on their income,” he advised.
On the topic of upcoming protests against bad governance, scheduled to resume on October 1, Abubakar called for peaceful demonstrations. He reflected on the previous #EndBadGovernance protests, which were marred by violence, looting, and criminal activities, and cautioned against repeating such unrest.
“During the last protest, we saw unnecessary and uncalled-for carnage, theft, and criminalities. Instead of protesting peacefully, people went about looting, even private houses. Private individuals suffered in the hands of the demonstrators,” he recalled.
The meeting concluded with Abdullahi Jabi, the visiting delegation leader, congratulating Gen. Abubakar on his recent birthday and wishing him continued good health and long life.
