Protest for Change: Ex-APC Minister Dalung Joins Demonstration as Group Demands Reversal of Fuel and Electricity Price Hikes

A group known as the Initiative for Better and Brighter Nigeria (IBBN) has called on President Bola Tinubu to revert to the old subsidy regime and electricity tariff as a solution to the ongoing protests and widespread hunger in the country.

Prophet Isa El-Buba, the Convener of IBBN, made the appeal while addressing protesters during a peaceful demonstration in Jos, Plateau State on Thursday. He criticized the disparity between the affluence of leaders and the suffering of ordinary Nigerians, emphasizing that the protests are a fight for improved governance.

El-Buba stated, “Every Nigerian enduring hardship knows this is a battle for right governance. We are committed to ensuring that the voice of the people is heard as the voice of God, and God demands an end to bad governance in Nigeria.”

He expressed confidence that proper institutions would end hunger and violence in the country. “We will persist for the next ten days until we secure the rights and resources meant for Nigerians,” he said. “It is better to endure hardship now for a better future than to enjoy today at the expense of tomorrow.”

El-Buba also addressed criticisms that the protests are driven by regional or ethnic agendas. He insisted that the movement is for a united Nigeria and reiterated the demand for President Tinubu to reverse recent increases in fuel and electricity costs.

Former Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Solomon Dalung, also spoke, declaring that inaction is tantamount to cowardice or betrayal. He reflected on past privileges and stressed the need for change, acknowledging past mistakes but asserting the possibility of a better future for Nigeria.

Dalung apologized for the failures of past governance, including his own involvement, and pledged solidarity with the people’s call for a better nation. “If Nigerians want progress, we must not let past failures dictate our future,” he affirmed.

The protestors marched from the Secretariat Junction to the Old Airport Junction in Jos, demanding immediate action to address the nation’s challenges.