The Northern Traditional Council, led by Sultan Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar of Sokoto, has sounded a dire alarm, cautioning that the escalating levels of poverty, hunger, and insecurity across Nigeria may soon catalyze widespread unrest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
Expressing deep concern, Sultan Sa’ad emphasized that traditional leaders’ ability to quell public dissatisfaction with government and political figures is waning in the face of persistent socioeconomic challenges.
“We’ve reached a critical juncture where the populace’s patience wears thin. The people are not just restless; they’re hungry and angry. While they still hold onto hope in some regional governors, traditional rulers, and religious figures, our influence to calm them indefinitely is not assured,” remarked Sultan Sa’ad during the 6th executive meeting of the Northern Traditional Council convened at Arewa House, Kaduna.
As both a traditional and religious figure, Sultan Sa’ad underscored the urgency of the situation, stressing that prolonged silence on the issues of poverty and insecurity could lead to irreparable ruptures in the societal fabric.
“The prevailing poverty and insecurity levels cannot be overlooked. We can’t afford to remain complacent. Nigeria, particularly the North, is grappling with significant challenges,” Sultan Sa’ad lamented.
His warning echoes recent protests sparked by surging food prices, which have reached alarming heights under the tenure of President Tinubu. Inflation-driven hikes in food costs prompted demonstrations in several states, including Niger, Kano, Osun, and Lagos.
A recent market analysis revealed a stark reality: food inflation has surged since President Tinubu assumed office in May 2023, exacerbating the plight of ordinary Nigerians. In response to mounting pressure, the government announced measures such as releasing grains from reserves and subsidizing fertilizers to alleviate the burden on citizens.
While these efforts garnered praise from international organizations like the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the underlying socioeconomic challenges persist, posing a formidable threat to the stability of Tinubu’s government and the nation at large.
