Nigeria’s traditional rulers, led by the Ooni of Ife and the Sultan of Sokoto, have called for caution and restraint amid planned protests across the country. The monarchs, who are revered for their wisdom and influence, urged Nigerians to prioritize peace and stability.

The traditional rulers who spoke after a meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu expressed concern over the potential consequences of the planned protests, which they fear could lead to violence and chaos.

“We urge all Nigerians to exercise caution and restraint in the face of the planned protests. We must prioritize peace and stability, and avoid any actions that could lead to violence and chaos,” the statement read.

The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, emphasized the importance of dialogue and engagement in addressing the country’s challenges.

“We must engage in constructive dialogue and work towards finding solutions to our problems. Violence and protests will only lead to more suffering and hardship for our people,” Oba Ogunwusi said.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar, echoed similar sentiments, stressing the need for Nigerians to come together and work towards a common goal.

“We must unite and work towards a common goal. We cannot afford to allow our differences to tear us apart. Let us prioritize peace and stability, and work towards building a better future for ourselves and our children,” Sultan Abubakar said. Other traditional rulers, including the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado Bayero, and the Obi of Onitsha, Nnaemeka Achebe, also lent their voices to the call for caution and restraint.

The planned protests, which are scheduled to take place across the country, are aimed at drawing attention to various issues, including economic hardship, insecurity, and political marginalization.

While the traditional rulers acknowledged the right of Nigerians to protest and express their grievances, they urged caution and restraint, emphasizing the need to prioritize peace and stability.

“We understand the frustrations and grievances of our people, but we must find constructive ways to address them. Violence and protests will only lead to more suffering and hardship,”

the statement read. The call for caution and restraint by the traditional rulers has been widely welcomed, with many Nigerians expressing support for their stance.

“I think the traditional rulers are right. We need to find peaceful ways to address our problems, rather than resorting to violence and protests,” said Lagos resident, Nneoma Okoro.

“I agree with the traditional rulers. We must prioritize peace and stability, and work towards finding solutions to our problems,” said Abuja resident, Musa Adamu.

As the planned protests approach, Nigerians are eagerly awaiting the outcome, hoping that the traditional rulers’ call for caution and restraint will be heeded.