The Northern Elders Forum (NEF) has directed criticism towards President Bola Tinubu’s administration, accusing it of displaying a lack of empathy towards the plight of the poor in Nigeria.
Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, the Director of Publicity and Advocacy/Spokesperson for NEF, expressed lamentation over what he described as a disconnect between the government and the suffering masses. Suleiman highlighted the inability of many Nigerians to afford basic necessities, particularly food, amidst rising living costs.
In a statement issued by Suleiman, he emphasized the distressing disparity between the reality faced by ordinary Nigerians and the actions, or lack thereof, of the country’s leaders. He criticized the apparent indifference of those in power towards the suffering of the populace, characterizing it as deeply troubling.
“It is disheartening to witness the disconnect between the reality on the ground and the actions, or lack thereof, of our leaders.
“While millions of Nigerians are struggling to put food on the table and make ends meet, those in power seem to be living in isolation or denial. This indifference to the suffering of the people they are meant to serve is deeply troubling.
“The consequences of this unchecked rise in inflation are devastating for ordinary Nigerians. Families are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities, as the prices of essential commodities such as rice, beans, and cooking oil continue to skyrocket.
“Moreover, the impact of inflation extends beyond the realm of food prices. Small businesses are struggling to survive as the cost of raw materials and transportation continues to rise.”
Suleiman underscored the severe consequences of unchecked inflation, particularly in terms of food prices, which have surged to levels beyond the reach of many citizens. He noted that essential commodities such as rice, beans, and cooking oil have become increasingly unaffordable, exacerbating hunger and malnourishment among the populace.
Furthermore, Suleiman pointed out that the impact of inflation extends beyond food prices, affecting small businesses struggling to survive amidst rising costs of raw materials and transportation.
The statement from NEF serves as a condemnation of the perceived disconnect between the government and the people it is meant to serve, highlighting the urgent need for empathy and proactive measures to address the worsening economic situation faced by Nigerians.
