A delegation of prominent Islamic leaders, known as Ulamas, has issued a strong warning against planned protests in the country.
The Ulamas disclosed this to State House correspondents after meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja on Thursday.
They emphasized the potential dangers of public demonstrations in the current climate.
Sheikh Abdurrahman Ahmad, a key member of the delegation, stated, “We are appealing to the people to shelve it. It is an ill wind that blows no one any good.”
He stressed that the proposed protests could escalate into insurrection, leading to the destruction of lives, property, and infrastructure.
The Ulama group, which includes figures like Abdullahi Bala Lau, conveyed that they had effectively communicated the public’s frustrations to the government during their meeting.
According to them, the President was receptive to their concerns and promised to address issues such as economic hardship and insecurity.
“We have conveyed their anger and frustration to the government, and the government has given reassurance that they are going to address it,” Ahmad explained.
The religious leaders urged citizens to exercise patience and allow time for the government’s promised interventions to take effect.
During the meeting, the President reportedly acknowledged the current difficulties faced by Nigerians but likened the situation to a necessary “weaning process” for long-term economic health.
He also warned against the influence of “fifth columnists” who might exploit public discontent to destabilize the country.
The Ulama delegation, known for their role in promoting peace and mediating conflicts, drew parallels between the proposed protests and recent unrest in other African nations.
They called on all Nigerians, both Muslims and Christians, to prioritise national stability and resist incitement to violence.
