By Momodu Becky
The Northern States Christian Elders Forum has called on President Bola Tinubu to reverse the latest increase in the pump price of petrol, warning that Nigerians’ patience with the worsening economic situation should not be interpreted as acceptance.
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The forum made the call in a statement issued on Thursday by its Chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe.
The elders expressed concern that another increase in petrol prices would further raise the cost of living and compound the economic difficulties already facing millions of Nigerians.
They urged the Federal Government to consider the impact of its policies on ordinary citizens, particularly amid rising living costs, unemployment, insecurity and deteriorating infrastructure.
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According to the forum, the administration should use the remaining period of its tenure to address the immediate challenges confronting Nigerians rather than imposing additional financial burdens on the population.
“The patience of Nigerians should not be mistaken for acceptance of perpetual hardship,” the elders warned.
The forum also advised the government to explore alternative and sustainable sources of revenue if additional funds are required to finance its programmes and meet its obligations.
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It cautioned against relying continually on fuel price increases as a means of raising revenue, arguing that such measures transfer more economic pressure to citizens.
The elders therefore appealed to President Tinubu to reconsider the latest petrol price increase and pursue measures that would ease the economic burden on Nigerians.