In response to the proposed nationwide protest starting on August 1, traditional rulers have voiced strong opposition to actions that could incite looting and civil unrest.

After a meeting with President Bola Tinubu, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, expressed the traditional institution’s stance to State House correspondents, emphasizing the need for law and order.

“While citizens have the right to protest, we cannot endorse actions that may result in lawlessness and destruction of property,” stated Oba Adeyeye. “We traditional rulers do not support youths coming out to start looting and breaking down law and order.”

The Emir of Zazzau also urged Nigerians to remain calm and patient amid current challenges. “The message we are taking back to our people is to be calm, exercise patience, and listen to the words of wisdom coming from the government,” he stated, expressing optimism about the President’s plans. “The President has given us the blueprint of what he has been doing over time, and we are hopeful that by God’s grace it will be alright.”

Addressing the pressing issues, particularly in the northern regions, the Emir highlighted insecurity as the main problem. “We have made it very clear to him, the main problem in this country, especially the north, is insecurity,” he emphasized.

Additionally, the Dein of Agbor Kingdom, Ikenchukwu Keagborokuzi I, appealed to Nigerian youths to collaborate with the Federal government and utilize available opportunities to improve the country’s fortunes. Acknowledging the challenges confronting the youths, he stated, “The ‘End Bad Governance’ protest will not solve the nation’s problems.”