The Yoruba socio-cultural organisation, Afenifere, has expressed concern over the rising wave of intolerance and inciting utterances by some politicians, which poses a threat to the forthcoming general election. In a communiqué signed by Afenifere's Leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and its new National Secretary-General, Mr Alade Rotimi-John, the group called for civilised and proper electioneering in line with global best practices. They also urged the Federal Government to ensure a free and fair 2027 general election by allowing the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to operate independently.
Afenifere's leaders denounced what they described as a surge in intolerance among some prominent political figures, whom they accused of making "reckless, inflammatory and inciting statements, thus heating up the polity and constricting the democratic space". The group challenged the Federal Government to ensure that INEC operates independently, allowing it to carry out its duties without interference. This call is aimed at ensuring that the 2027 general election is free, fair, and transparent.
The organisation also reviewed the prevailing socioeconomic and political situation across the country, expressing deep concern that "a pervasive climate of hardship, hunger and hyperinflation still defines the present federal administration". The leaders lamented what they described as the government's casual approach to its "covenant responsibilities on safety, security, the economy, and general well-being". They called for urgent attention to address the suffering of citizens.
Afenifere described the Federal Government's proposed petrol price modulation mechanism, which seeks to stabilise prices at no more than N1,350 per litre, as inadequate. The group called for an immediate reduction in petrol prices to between N350 and N400 per litre to make the product more affordable and alleviate the severe hardship facing citizens across the country. This, they believe, will help cushion the effects of hyperinflation on citizens.
The leaders also expressed concern about workers' weak purchasing power amid rising inflation, saying the existing N70,000 minimum wage should be urgently reviewed to address the inflationary spiral, which they said had rendered the wage inadequate under current circumstances. They noted that the current minimum wage is no longer sufficient to cater to the needs of workers, given the rising cost of living.
The meeting also confirmed the appointment of Mr Alade Rotimi-John as Afenifere's substantive Secretary-General. Other attendees included Omo-Oba Supo Shonibare, former Lagos State Deputy Governor, Senator Kofo Bucknor-Akerele, and Mr Tola Mobolurin, among others. The group commiserated with Mr Leke Adefala over the death of his wife and resolved to attend the funeral.
Key points from the meeting include the need for civilised and proper electioneering, an urgent review of the N70,000 national minimum wage, and a reduction in petrol prices to alleviate the suffering of citizens. The group will continue to monitor the situation and advocate for the rights and interests of Nigerians.
Key points
- Afenifere warns politicians against inciting statements and improper conduct ahead of the 2027 general election.
- The group calls for an urgent review of the N70,000 national minimum wage to address the inflationary spiral.
- Afenifere advocates for a reduction in petrol prices to between N350 and N400 per litre to alleviate the severe hardship facing citizens.
