Muslims in the South-West, under the umbrella of the Muslim Ummah of South West Nigeria (MUSWEN), have urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to intensify efforts in alleviating the suffering of Nigerians amidst the prevailing economic challenges.
This plea was made during the 9th MUSWEN General Assembly held on Sunday. The event brought together notable figures, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, the Executive Secretary of MUSWEN, Professor Muslih Tayo Yahya, and the Director of the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), Professor Isiaq Lakin Akintola.
Speaking at the assembly, Alhaji Rasaki Oladejo, the President of MUSWEN and the Deputy President-General of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), emphasized the need for the Tinubu administration to approach the current economic situation with a sense of urgency and caution.
Oladejo called on the President to demonstrate greater empathy and implement policies aimed at reducing the economic hardship faced by citizens. He specifically advised that the funds saved from the removal of fuel subsidies should be allocated to critical areas such as security, infrastructure development, electrification projects, massive food production, and employment-generating initiatives. He warned against relying on food importation, noting that such a move would undermine the intended benefits of the subsidy removal.
In addition, Oladejo appealed to President Tinubu to carefully consider public concerns regarding the proposed Tax Reform Bill. He urged the government to listen to the voices of various groups across the country, highlighting that many Nigerians are already grappling with economic difficulties.
He remarked, “The current economic situation demands a cautious approach. The government must show compassion and introduce measures to ease the widespread suffering caused by certain economic policies. Although we acknowledge that these challenges were not created by the Tinubu administration, it is crucial for the government to act decisively to mitigate the hardships experienced by citizens.”
Oladejo further reminded the administration that Nigerians voted for the government with high expectations during the 2023 general elections and that the President has a duty to improve the lives of the people.
Addressing opposition voices, Oladejo cautioned citizens against falling prey to politicians who persist in opposing the administration. He said, “There are political leaders who, even more than a year after the 2023 elections, continue to act as though we are still in the electioneering phase. Nigerians should be wary of their divisive tactics.”
The MUSWEN President reiterated the importance of collaborative efforts between the government and citizens to navigate the economic crisis effectively, urging the administration to prioritize the well-being of the populace above all else.
