By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
The Yoruba Union (Igbinmọ Majekobaje Ilẹ-Yorub) has demanded the resignation of President Bola Tinubu in response to rising fuel prices and worsening hunger affecting the southwest region and Nigeria as a whole.
The union has expressed serious concerns over the economic policies of Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of deepening poverty and turning many Nigerians into beggars. They have condemned the enforcement of IMF policies, which they argue have stifled both small and large businesses and severely impacted the Yoruba people.
In a statement issued late on Sunday by Convener Olusola Oluwaseyi Badero, the union criticized the government for allowing fuel prices to soar from ₦600 to ₦900 while many Nigerians struggle to afford basic necessities.
Badero emphasized that the Yoruba people, traditionally known for their culture of Omoluabi (honor and integrity), have been driven to begging due to the administration’s detrimental policies. He stated, “We not only demand Tinubu’s resignation but also an apology to the Yoruba people for tarnishing their dignity. Our communities face rampant kidnappings and violence, and they can no longer farm or secure their livelihoods.”
Badero also highlighted Tinubu’s failure to live up to his campaign promises, recalling how he pledged to reduce fuel prices during his campaign in Ogun State but instead raised them shortly after taking office. “Tinubu has run out of ideas and should resign honorably. Nigeria is not his family business; he cannot raise prices at will. Our citizens are struggling to send their children to school, and with the cost of rice soaring to ₦80,000, many families can barely afford basic meals. Additionally, most southwestern states have yet to implement the new minimum wage.”
The union stated its commitment to not passively watching its people suffer, even under a fellow Yoruba president. “We are the Omoluabi—a people of honor. We will not tolerate anyone who dishonors the Yoruba nation by subjecting our people to modern-day slavery.”
The union also criticized Tinubu for allegedly splurging on luxury items such as a new presidential jet, a yacht, and bulletproof vehicles while raising fuel prices and enacting policies that further impoverish the populace. They urged Yoruba people across Nigeria to join the October protests and legally voice their discontent with Tinubu’s administration.
Badero added that the Tinubu administration has failed the people, and the Yoruba Union is committed to safeguarding the interests of the Yoruba, who have been oppressed by the current regime.
Following the recent #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria protests held from August 1 to 10, 2024, organizers are preparing for another series of demonstrations scheduled for October, dubbed ‘Fearless in October.’ This upcoming wave of protests aims to build on the momentum created by the previous movement and amplify calls for genuine change.
Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilization for the Take It Back Movement, confirmed plans for the October demonstrations. According to Adenola, the protests will leverage the achievements and lessons from the August protests to increase pressure on the government to address urgent national issues and promote accountable governance.
