The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, acknowledged Nigeria’s economic challenges, emphasizing that they are part of a global phenomenon. Speaking on Channels TV’s Politics Today, the monarch supported Nigerians’ right to protest but insisted it must be peaceful and without damaging government property.
“The agitation is real. We know we have a lot of suffering in the country and it’s not only Nigeria. We have global inflation and it is everywhere, not only in Nigeria,” he said.
Oba Ogunwusi urged citizens to give President Bola Tinubu’s administration more time to address the issues, noting that traditional rulers are committed to preserving the country’s public assets. He emphasized the need for true patriotism and sensitivity during these times.
“We should focus on true patriotism… We must ensure public assets are not destroyed and appeal for patience with the current government to correct things since it’s a global issue,” the Ooni added.
Nigeria has seen a spike in the cost of living following the removal of the fuel subsidy and the easing of foreign exchange controls by President Tinubu. Inflation hit a record 34.19% in June, with food inflation exceeding 40.87%, according to the National Bureau of Statistics. Authorities, including the police, military, and DSS, have warned against violent protests.