Northern Youths Threaten Mass Action Over Fuel Subsidy Removal

Northern Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN) has expressed its opposition to the proposed removal of fuel subsidy in Nigeria and threatened mass civil action across the entire 19 northern states and the FCT.

The youth council, which represents the interests of young people in the northern region of Nigeria, said the potential impact of such a move on the already struggling economy will be unimaginable.

In a statement issued by the council’s president, Isah Abubakar, the group expressed fear that any palliative measures put in place to cushion the effect of the planned subsidy removal would be looted by corrupt individuals, just like the COVID-19 intervention funds.

The council called on the Nigerian government to reconsider its decision to remove the subsidy, arguing that it would only lead to an increase in the cost of living for the average Nigerian, who is already struggling to make ends meet. They also urged the government to focus on implementing policies that would create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

“We cannot afford to have another round of hardship inflicted on the Nigerian people, especially the youth who are already grappling with high unemployment rates and a lack of opportunities,” Abubakar said.

The council warned that there will be severe political consequences on those who are conspiring to throw Nigerians into an avoidable crisis, saying that they should look at how some powerful governors were humiliated in the recently concluded election and understand that power now rests on the thumbs of Nigerians. 

Therefore vowed to resist any attempt to remove the fuel subsidy and called on other youth organisations across the country to join in the fight to protect the interests of the Nigerian people.