Accept hardship as a trial from God – APC Governor tells Nigerians

Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State, a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), advised Nigerians to view the ongoing economic difficulties as a divine trial, rather than engaging in protests.

He shared this perspective during a town hall meeting with 27 groups in Dutse on Monday.

During the meeting, various organizations such as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), and the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) expressed their disapproval of the upcoming nationwide protest set for August 1.

Governor Namadi acknowledged the economic difficulties confronting the nation and emphasized that protests are not the solution.

He encouraged citizens to find alternative ways to voice their concerns, such as through prayer and seeking divine intervention.

He stated, “There are many ways people could express their grievances; people are at liberty to display their grievances through protest under democratic dispensation, but that isn’t the most effective way to address the problems.

“The protest alone will not provide the solutions; people should turn to God, repent, seek for forgiveness and divine intervention on the challenges.”

The governor emphasized the government’s initiatives in providing relief measures to mitigate the impact of the hardship, including the distribution of food items, materials, and cash.

He also reminded the public that the federal government had granted approval for the importation of food items without import duty for a period of five months.

Namadi urged Nigerians to perceive the hardships as a test from God, referring to the Islamic belief in destiny.

In the meantime, the Police Commissioner in Jigawa, Tijjani Abdullahi, cautioned individuals contemplating involvement in the protest to reconsider their decision.

He noted, “The security agencies in the state are combat-ready to deal with anyone who wants to breach public peace and order.”