The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the latest increase in the pump price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), warning that Nigerians’ patience with worsening economic hardship should not be mistaken for acceptance.
In a statement by its Chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe, the forum said the latest petrol price increase would further worsen the financial pressure on households already struggling with rising food prices, transport fares and other basic expenses.
NOSCEF urged the President to use the remaining period of his administration to address the rising cost of living, unemployment, insecurity and the deterioration of critical infrastructure.
“The patience of Nigerians should not be mistaken for acceptance of perpetual hardship,” the forum warned.
The elders called on the Federal Government to explore alternative and sustainable sources of revenue rather than repeatedly increasing the cost of petroleum products and transferring the burden to citizens.
They also urged the government to place citizens’ welfare ahead of political calculations about future elections.
NOSCEF acknowledged that the administration had made efforts in some areas but said the continuing hardship across the country showed that more needed to be done.
The forum further cautioned President Tinubu against relying solely on officials or supporters who might present a more favourable picture of the economy than the reality being experienced by ordinary Nigerians.
According to the group, its position was based on its contact with communities where members worship, work and interact with people facing the economic challenges.
NOSCEF called for measures to reduce the cost of living, restore household purchasing power, create productive opportunities for young Nigerians, strengthen the fight against insecurity and accelerate the provision and rehabilitation of critical infrastructure.
The elders urged the Federal Government to respond to the situation with empathy, urgency and practical solutions, warning that continued public patience should not be interpreted as an unlimited willingness to endure worsening living conditions.
