One of Nigeria’s foremost faith-based non-governmental organisations, The Muslim Congress (TMC) has called on Nigerians to exercise caution and consider the broader implications of embarking on the proposed nationwide protests.
The organisation made the appeal during her quarterly state of the nation address, series 27, held on Saturday, July 13, with a call on Nigerians, especially the youths to exhibit wisdom and explore peaceful avenues to engage with the government in addressing the shared challenges facing the country.
The call by the national leadership of TMC came after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu pleaded with the organisers to shelve the protests and give his administration more time to execute people-oriented programmes.
Speaking at the press conference held at her national headquarters in Lagos, Amir of TMC, Alhaji Abdul Wasi’i Bangbala, who also doubles as Chairman, TMC Committee on Social Mobility, the Economy & Politics, said it’s imperative that Nigerians exercise caution and consider the broader implications of such actions.
“While the right to protest is fundamental and constitutionally protected, it is crucial to acknowledge the complexities surrounding the current situation,” he noted.
Alhaji Bangbala stressed that President Bola Tinubu’s economic reforms require time to take effect, particularly amidst the prevailing food and economic crises in the country.
According to him, “The recent calls for protest, while stemming from genuine concerns, have also been marred by political agendas and sensationalism, potentially undermining the genuine pursuit of progress.
“We call on Nigerians, especially the youths, to exhibit wisdom and explore peaceful avenues to engage with the government in addressing the shared challenges facing our nation. Indeed, our voices matter and our concerns are valid, reflecting the widespread impact of the current economic realities and hunger in the nation.
“However, it is crucial to discern and reject any attempts to sow discord and anarchy, especially through manipulative narratives in the social and traditional media platforms. In this critical period of economic reform, what is most needed is patience and a steadfast commitment to the success of these reforms.
“Let us draw lessons from past crises that tested our nation’s unity and resilience, emphasizing the importance of upholding peace and diversity in the face of challenges. Together, through understanding and cooperation, we can navigate these turbulent times and strive towards a better future for Nigeria,” added.
Other issues discussed during the press conference include:
COMBATING THE RESURGENT THREAT OF TERRORISM
In the wake of the recent tragic suicide bombing in Gworza, Borno State, which resulted in the loss of over 20 lives, reports indicating terrorist presence in parts of the northwest are signaling a potential escalation of insecurity in the region. It is, therefore, crucial that the government collaborates closely with security forces to promptly investigate these reports to avert another major insurgency in the northwest.
Beyond merely making promises and vague assurances, the government must take decisive action against this threat, establishing clear and measurable timelines for addressing the situation. While we acknowledge President Tinubu’s resolute commitment to eradicating insurgency, it is evident that the security landscape continues to deteriorate, necessitating comprehensive efforts to ensure the safety of citizens and to attract foreign investments.
Although, it is undeniable that significant progress has been made in weakening the violent insurgent group, including the recapture of territories once held by Boko Haram, the threat still persists. The military’s efforts have constrained the group’s operations, but complete defeat has not yet been achieved. We, therefore, call on the federal government to reassess its strategies, to enhance intelligence gathering capabilities and adapt to the challenges posed by the asymmetric warfare.
The current situation demands a proactive approach to prevent further loss of innocent lives and safeguard valuable assets from the senseless acts of terrorism plaguing the country. It is time for the authorities to strengthen their intelligence infrastructure and tailor it to effectively combat the evolving threats, demonstrating a firm resolve to address the pressing security concerns facing Nigeria.
FOOD AND SECURITY CRISES DEMAND ACTION
Nigeria is facing a dual crisis of skyrocketing prices of essential goods and severe security challenges, exacerbating financial hardship, poverty and a burdensome cost of living for its citizens. To tackle these pressing issues, the government must implement concrete initiatives to address hunger and enhance the economic landscape. The security challenges, characterized by banditry, kidnapping and widespread violence have led to food scarcity nationwide, with key agricultural states being overrun by bandits and terrorists.
Prioritizing security measures to safeguard farmers and agricultural activities is crucial for food sustainability. The police and other security agencies must play pivotal roles in Nigeria’s security framework to ensure food security. Furthermore, the government should explore and adopt efficient and successful agricultural models, both domestically and internationally to address the challenge of soaring food inflation.
PRESIDENT TINUBU MUST REIN IN CRIMINALITY AND CORRUPTION IN THE OIL SECTOR
Nigeria’s oil sector is plagued by rampant industrial-scale criminality, with illegal refineries operating across several states, causing environmental devastation and economic losses. President Bola Tinubu must prioritize overhauling the security apparatus in the Niger Delta to combat this threat. The mission is clear: eradicate illegal refining activities, deploy cutting-edge technologies like leak-detection sensors and satellite surveillance and set tangible performance targets for the military.
Addressing collusion between criminals and corrupt security personnel is crucial, requiring a concerted effort to restore law and order to the oil sector.
THE FIGHT AGAINST CHOLERA: EDUCATION, INTERVENTION, AND COLLABORATION
The recent outbreak of cholera in Nigeria has raised serious concerns about the need for swift action to prevent further loss of life. It is crucial that Nigerians are properly educated on the causes, symptoms and prevention of cholera, with emphasis on maintaining good hygiene practices and drinking clean water. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) must not be content with coordinating efforts from Abuja but should physically visit affected states to assess the situation and intervene promptly.
We call on state governments to take immediate steps to contain the spread of the disease and provide adequate medical care to those affected. Furthermore, in preventing future outbreaks, we venture to say that attention should be paid to places where large gatherings occur, including the National Youth Service Scheme (NYSC) orientation camps. We urge the authorities to take serious action against open defecation which is rampant around the country as it contributes to the spread of cholera.
Enlightenment should also be extended to restaurants and all food sellers in public places.
IMPROVING ACCESS TO ESSENTIAL MEDICINES: A POSITIVE MOVE BY PRESIDENT TINUBU
We want to commend President Bola Tinubu’s recent executive order to introduce zero tariffs, excise duties and Value Added Tax (VAT) on imported pharmaceutical. This is a positive step towards improving access to essential medicines amidst the rising cost of medicines in the country. The escalating prices of medicines have not only made it difficult for many Nigerians to afford necessary healthcare but have also increased the risk of counterfeit drugs flooding the market.
A situation that may force medical professionals to resort to suboptimal treatments that are less effective and could lead to sporadic epidemic outbreaks. The government, by this move, has taken the right step in revitalizing the health sector and promoting local production of healthcare products. This move is expected to not only make medicines more affordable for the average Nigerian, but also encourage investment in the local pharmaceutical industry.
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