Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called on the organisers of the planned October 1 “Fearless” protest to reconsider their actions and instead engage constructively with the Federal Government to address their concerns.
According to The PUNCH, the governor made this appeal during a special church service held at the Cathedral Church of St. Peter, Ake, Abeokuta, in celebration of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day.
Abiodun emphasized that protests often lead to vandalism and looting, while dialogue with the government would yield more productive outcomes.
“Let us not join those fanning the flames of discord in our country. Protests, violence, and civil disobedience only lead to destruction of public properties. Instead, we should engage constructively with the government,” he stated.
During the service, the governor also highlighted the benefits of President Bola Tinubu’s subsidy removal policy, noting that the initiative could save Nigeria up to N5.4 trillion by the end of 2024.
“The subsidy, if not curbed, would have cost us N5.4 trillion by the end of next year. These funds can now be redirected to infrastructure development and other critical areas,” he explained.
Abiodun further disclosed that his administration is actively implementing measures to mitigate the economic challenges caused by the subsidy removal, including the deployment of Compressed Natural Gas buses, the launch of e-bikes as part of the state’s energy transition program, and the reduction of workdays for civil servants.
Additionally, he revealed plans to establish farmers’ markets across the state’s four zones and launch the Gateway Trading Company, which will offer food items at wholesale prices to help reduce living costs.
“We are committed to cushioning the impact of these economic realities. Our farmers’ markets will soon be ready, and through the Gateway Trading Company, we will sell food at affordable prices,” Abiodun assured.
Addressing the subsidy issue further, the governor pointed out that continuing to pay for fuel subsidies would have been financially unsustainable, especially given the Federal Government’s N6.7 trillion budget for infrastructure in 2024.
“We have been subsidizing fuel for our neighbours for too long. The funds saved from removing the subsidy will now go towards improving our infrastructure and essential services,” he added.
In his sermon, Rt. Rev’d Dr. Akinwande Odubena, Diocesan Bishop of Ijebu North Anglican Diocese, emphasized the importance of leadership in times of crisis, citing the need for hope despite Nigeria’s current challenges, which include hyperinflation, oil theft, unemployment, and insecurity. “We must be hopeful for a better Ogun State and Nigeria,” the bishop said.
The Bible reading for the service, taken from 2 Corinthians 11:16-31, was delivered by Governor Abiodun.
