The Northern States Christian Elders Forum (NOSCEF) has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to reverse the latest increase in the price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), popularly known as petrol.
The group warned that the latest adjustment could further worsen the economic difficulties facing households already struggling with rising food prices, transportation costs and other essential expenses.
In a statement signed by its Chairman, Elder Sunday Oibe, NOSCEF said the continued patience of Nigerians should not be interpreted as acceptance of what it described as persistent hardship.
The elders urged the Federal Government to explore alternative and sustainable sources of revenue rather than repeatedly transferring the burden to citizens through higher petroleum prices.
They also called on President Tinubu to use the remaining period of his administration to address pressing issues affecting Nigerians, including the rising cost of living, unemployment, insecurity and the poor state of critical infrastructure.
According to the forum, the welfare of citizens should take priority over political considerations ahead of future elections.
While acknowledging that the administration had made efforts in some areas, NOSCEF maintained that the level of hardship being experienced across the country showed that more needed to be done.
The group also cautioned the President against relying solely on government officials or political supporters who might present a more favourable picture of the economy than what ordinary Nigerians are experiencing.
NOSCEF said its position was informed by its members’ direct interaction with communities across the country.
The elders said hunger, insecurity, unemployment, declining purchasing power and inadequate infrastructure had left many Nigerians facing growing uncertainty.
They therefore called for urgent measures to reduce the cost of living, restore household purchasing power, create productive opportunities for young people, strengthen security and accelerate the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure.
The forum further urged the Federal Government to listen to citizens and ensure that their welfare remains central to major economic decisions.
NOSCEF warned that public patience should not be mistaken for an unlimited willingness to endure worsening living conditions.
The group called on the government to respond with empathy and practical measures capable of preventing further deterioration in the living standards of Nigerians.
