Prominent traditional rulers, clerics, and Ulamas have opposed the proposed hunger protests by Nigerians, citing the risk of them spiralling out of control.

After meeting with the President at the State House in Abuja, Islamic leaders expressed their opposition to the demonstration.

Traditional rulers, led by the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Ooni of Ife, His Imperial Majesty Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, echoed the call for caution, deeming the protests ill-timed.

Similarly, the Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Oba Ewuare, appealed to youths to cancel their planned nationwide protest against hardship.

President Bola Tinubu, addressing those instigating the protests, asserted they did not love Nigeria, as they held alternative passports and were not residents of the country. He vowed not to let them turn Nigeria into another Sudan.

Tinubu, who revealed his self-sponsored campaign, stated it was without any strings or indebtedness to any cabal, individual, or institution. He assured citizens that the nation’s economy was on a gradual but steady path to recovery and that his administration would do more to meet their needs.

Receiving the Letter of Credence from the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr Richard Mills Jr., Tinubu recognised protests as integral to democracy but stressed that no government would condone demonstrations that could lead to the destruction of lives and property.

Emphasising the importance of sustaining democracy, its norms, and institutions, Tinubu told the US envoy, “Our relationship with America is rich; we believe in democracy and freedom.”

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) disclosed that the National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, briefed them on the growing momentum for the planned protest, requiring government attention.

Similarly, the Defence Headquarters (DHQ) warned the protest organisers that it would not tolerate any lawlessness or actions that could lead to anarchy.

The Department of State Services (DSS) claimed to have identified the protest’s sponsors and motive, which it said was to pit the people against the government.

A pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political organisation, Afenifere, has appealed to Nigerians to be cautious about the planned nationwide protests.

FCT Minister Nyesom Wike warned the organisers of the “End bad governance protest” on 1st August that the nation’s capital was not available for such activities.

Nonetheless, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) asked the federal government to ensure security agencies maintain peace and protect citizens, including those participating in any protest.

Sheikh Bala Lau, leading the clerics and Ulamas, assured the President of their support through prayers and greater sensitisation, advocating peace and God’s guidance in handling the situation.

“Peace is paramount for us in the country. The first thing Abraham asked God for was peace and guidance,’’ Lau noted.

Traditional rulers from all six geo-political zones appealed to those planning the protest to be wary of actions that could lead to anarchy.

Following the meeting with Tinubu, the Ooni of Ife, co-chairman of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria, urged protesters to exercise their civic rights peacefully, warning against its hijacking by individuals with sinister motives.

He highlighted the traditional rulers’ condemnation of violent acts, looting, and breakdowns of law and order, emphasising their role as parents and leaders in engaging with youth.

The Sultan of Sokoto expressed hope that the meeting would clarify issues affecting the nation. He mentioned an executive council meeting where State Chairmen from all 36 States and the FCT deliberated on the economy.

Dein of Agbor, Keagborekuzi Ikenchuku Gbenoba, also appealed to Nigerian youths to refrain from destructive protests and work with the government to find solutions.

He expressed concern about the nation’s direction, acknowledging the youths’ passion and pain, and emphasised the importance of listening to them and working together to avoid destructive consequences, citing Libya as a cautionary example.

The Emir of Zauzzau, Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli, urged Nigerians to remain calm and patient, urging them to consider the government’s plans to address the country’s challenges. He expressed hope that the government’s blueprint would bring positive change.

The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Oba Ewuare II, issued a statement appealing to youths to cancel the planned nationwide protest against hardship. His Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Osaigbovo Iguobaro, endorsed the statement, urging aggrieved Nigerians to give the federal government time to implement its economic policy to alleviate the present hardship.