Nigerian President Bola Tinubu addressed the nation in connection with protests in the country against inflation, calling on protesters to stop demonstrating and engage in dialogue.
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In early July, Nigeria’s largest trade unions decided to go on strike after failing to reach an agreement with the federal government on a minimum wage. As it was previously reported, the authorities proposed setting the minimum at 60 thousand naira per month (about $37). Nigeria’s Information Minister Mohammed Idris said on July 18 that the country’s government had reached an agreement with unions to raise the minimum wage to about $43 amid a nationwide indefinite strike.
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While addressing the nation on Sunday, Tinubu said he was shocked by the death toll from the protests and called on participants to stop the rallies.
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“As the president of this country, I must ensure public order… In the current circumstances, I call on protesters and organizers (of protests) to suspend any further protests and create conditions for dialogue,” the president said.
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Tinubu added that the country’s authorities will not sit idly by. The President also condemned acts of vandalism and looting due to protests in several states and expressed condolences to those killed.
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Earlier, local newspaper Punch reported 17 deaths as a result of unrest in Nigeria caused by protests against inflation.
