The Northern Elders Forum (NEF), has urged President Bola Tinubu led- administration to curb corruption and wasteful spending by government officials as part of measures to reduce the current rising inflation in Nigeria.
A statement signed by Abdul-Azeez Suleiman, Director Publicity and Advocacy/Spokesperson of NEF, explained that the mismanagement of public funds by government officials exacerbates the inflationary pressure and erodes the trust of the people.
The Forum said it is deeply concerned about the unchecked rise in inflation in Nigeria, which is posing a significant threat to the well-being of its citizens.
The NEF noted that the rising inflation in Nigeria is pushing so many Nigerians to poverty and despair.
Suleiman said the cost of living has been steadily increasing, particularly in terms of food prices, leading to widespread hunger and malnourishment.
This alarming situation, he said, demands immediate attention and action from the government.
He said: “It is disheartening to witness the disconnect between the reality on the ground and the actions, or lack thereof, of our leaders.
“While millions of Nigerians are struggling to put food on the table and make ends meet, those in power seem to be living in isolation or denial.
“This indifference to the suffering of the people they are meant to serve is deeply troubling.
“The consequences of this unchecked rise in inflation are devastating for ordinary Nigerians.
“Families are finding it increasingly difficult to afford basic necessities, as the prices of essential commodities such as rice, beans, and cooking oil continue to skyrocket.
“This dire situation has resulted in a rise in malnutrition, particularly among children, as families are forced to prioritise their limited resources.
“Moreover, the impact of inflation extends beyond the realm of food prices. Small businesses are struggling to survive as the cost of raw materials and transportation continues to rise.
“Unemployment rates are soaring as companies are unable to sustain their operations amidst mounting expenses. This vicious cycle of inflation and economic decline is pushing our nation further into poverty and despair.”
The Northern Elders Forum, therefore, demands urgent measures from the government to address this crisis before it plunges the nation into greater conflict and chaos.
According to the statement, “The welfare of its citizens must be prioritised, and policies must be implemented to alleviate the burden of inflation.
“This includes increasing agricultural productivity, investing in infrastructure to reduce transportation costs, and implementing social safety nets to support the most vulnerable members of society.
“Additionally, it is imperative that the government takes decisive steps to curb corruption and wasteful spending.
“The mismanagement of public funds only exacerbates the inflationary pressure and erodes the trust of the people.
“Transparency and accountability must be upheld at all levels of government to restore confidence in our leadership.
“The unchecked rise in inflation in Nigeria is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention and action. The government must acknowledge the suffering of its citizens and implement effective policies to alleviate the burden of inflation.
“By prioritising the welfare of its people, curbing corruption, and promoting transparency, Nigeria can overcome this crisis and pave the way for a brighter future.
“It is time for our leaders to rise to the occasion and address the challenges facing our nation.”
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