The apex Yoruba socio-political organisation, Afenifere, has expressed concern over the increasing wave of political intolerance and inflammatory rhetoric among Nigeria's political class as the 2027 general elections approach. In a communiqué signed by Afenifere National Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and the newly appointed substantive Secretary-General, Mr. Alade Rotimi-John, the group warned that reckless statements by politicians are threatening Nigeria's democratic space. Afenifere called for decorum, restraint, and adherence to global best practices as electioneering begins.
Afenifere denounced the toxic political atmosphere and urged politicians to conduct themselves with civility. The group criticized the rising intolerance among some politicians who make inciting statements, heating up the polity and constricting the democratic space. Afenifere challenged the Federal Government to demonstrate commitment to democratic ideals by ensuring the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) operates independently during the 2027 elections. This call comes as political parties ramp up activities ahead of the polls.
Reviewing the socio-economic situation in Nigeria, Afenifere criticized the administration's performance, noting a pervasive climate of hardship, hunger, and hyperinflation under the Tinubu presidency. The group faulted the handling of safety, security, and economic well-being. Afenifere rejected the recent fuel price modulation mechanism announced by the Minister of Finance, capping petrol at N1,350 per litre, describing it as a far cry from Nigerians' expectations.
Afenifere advocated for an immediate review of the fuel price cap to N350 – N400 per litre to ease transport and living costs. The group also called for an upward adjustment of the current N70,000 national minimum wage, arguing that hyperinflation has rendered it ineffective. According to Afenifere, the current wage is no longer sufficient to cater to the needs of Nigerians.
The organisation's monthly National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting held in Lagos resulted in the communiqué, which emphasized the need for politicians to conduct themselves with decorum. Afenifere's concerns come as the 2027 general elections approach, with the group urging caution and responsible behavior from politicians. The group's warnings are timely, given the rising tensions in the polity.
Afenifere's critique of the administration's handling of the economy and security is not limited to the fuel price cap. The group also expressed concerns over the pervasive climate of hardship and hunger in the country. According to Afenifere, the current economic situation is a defining characteristic of the Tinubu presidency, with many Nigerians struggling to make ends meet.
The group's call for an upward review of the national minimum wage is a response to the current economic realities in Nigeria. Afenifere argued that the current wage is no longer sufficient to cater to the needs of Nigerians, given the high inflation rate. The group's suggestions aim to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians and promote a more equitable society.
Key points
- Afenifere warns of rising political intolerance ahead of 2027 elections
- Group criticizes administration's handling of economy and security
- Afenifere advocates for review of fuel price cap and upward adjustment of national minimum wage
