Former Senate President Lawan warns of mass protests over rising food prices and electricity tariffs in Nigeria. Senate urges government action amid economic challenges.
Former Senate President Ahmad Lawan has issued a stark warning, predicting mass protests unless urgent measures are taken to curb escalating food prices and high electricity tariffs in Nigeria. Lawan's remarks came during a Senate debate initiated by Senator Sunday Karimi of Kogi West, focusing on the pressing issue of food insecurity exacerbated by economic challenges.
Highlighting a significant increase in food staples' prices, Lawan attributed this surge to factors including insecurity in food-producing regions, poor infrastructure, rising transportation costs due to fuel subsidy removal, and currency depreciation. He emphasized that neglecting these issues risks igniting widespread public unrest.
Senator Karimi underscored that food prices had soared by over 300% post-subsidy removal, exacerbated by traders' pursuit of excessive profits. The Senate, responding to these concerns, has called upon relevant government agencies to address the crisis urgently.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio facilitated the adoption of Karimi's motion following a voice vote, signaling bipartisan recognition of the severity of the situation. Lawan's warning serves as a poignant reminder of the government's responsibility to prioritize economic stability and public welfare amidst growing discontent.
