Nigerian President Bola Tinubu on Sunday firmly dismissed calls to reinstate fuel subsidies, despite widespread protests that have turned deadly in recent days.
In a nationwide address, Tinubu acknowledged the hardship caused by the removal of the subsidies but insisted that the policy was crucial for the country’s economic recovery.
The president blamed the subsidy for stifling Nigeria’s economic growth and development, likening it to a “noose around the economic jugular” of the nation.
He warned protesters that law enforcement would take action to maintain order while expressing condolences to the families of those who have lost their lives during the demonstrations.
Tinubu accused certain groups of having a political agenda and attempting to destabilize the country.
He urged protesters to end the demonstrations and engage in dialogue.
The protests, which erupted on Thursday, have seen thousands take to the streets across Nigeria to express their anger over the economic hardships exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidies.
The demonstrations escalated on Saturday with hundreds of young people in Kano even flying a Russian flag as a desperate plea for international intervention.