The National Christian Elders Forum (NCEF), has appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to review downward the pump price of petrol and high electricity tariff to alleviate the sufferings and hunger Nigerians are experiencing.
The forum also called for improved security, particularly for farmers in rural areas to be able to go about their farming activities for the nation’s food security.
Samuel Danjuma Dani, the chairman of NCEF, in a statement issued after the meeting of the Christian elders on the current state of the nation, observed that the increase in the pump price of petrol has led to the rise in the cost of food and other essential commodities.
Dani, who was Deputy Governor of Taraba State, also observed that the recent protests by some Nigerians were as a result of the increase in petrol prices and the hardship faced by the populace.
The Christian Elders recommended a downward review of petrol prices to alleviate the suffering of the people and advocated or a reduction in electricity tariffs to enable Nigerians to produce goods and services more economically, stressing that the measures will enhance productivity and create employment opportunities for the burgeoning youth population in the country.
The forum said, “We call for improved security, particularly for farmers in rural areas who are crucial to the nation’s food security. While we recognize the Government’s efforts in this regard, we urge for more immediate and effective actions.”
The forum firmly believed that the straightforward recommendations would significantly alleviate the current hardships experienced by many Nigerians.
Members of the NCEF at the meeting were Pastor Bosun Emmanuel – Secretary, Dr. Saleh Hussaini – Vice Chairman (North), Elder Shyngle Wigwe – Vice Chairman (South), Mrs. Osaretin Demuren – Treasurer, Prof. Joseph Otubu, Dr. (Mrs) Kate Okparaeke, Dr. Ayo Abifarin, Gen. Zamani Lekwot (rtd), Hon. Justice James Ogebe, JSC (rtd), Elder Moses Ihonde, Hon. Justice Kalajine Anigbogu (rtd), Elder Nat Okoro, Mr. Solomon Asemota, SAN, and Elder Matthew Owojaiye.
Others were DIG P. L. Dabup, Sir John W. Bagu, Dame Priscilla Kuye, Prof. (Mrs) Deborah Enilo Ajakaiye, HRM Oba Dokun Thompson, Dr. Taiwo Idemudia (Diaspora), Elder Minso Gadzama, Apostle Bulus Musa Kewa, Admiral Peter Adeniyi (Rtd), Hon. Justice Goddy Anunihu (Rtd) and Chief Sir Ferdinand Anikwe.
Review downward fuel price, electricity tariff – Christian elders tell Tinubu