Osun: Coalition issues ultimatum to address rising cost of living, fuel prices
By Ismail Azeez, Osogbo
The Coalition for Concerned Nigeria Citizens in Osun State has issued a stern warning to both the state and federal governments, demanding urgent action to tackle the escalating cost of living, with a particular focus on rising fuel prices.
Led by Mr. Ajala Adetunji David, the coalition convened a press conference under the banner, #ENDBADGOVERNANCE, STATE OF NATION, and has given the government an ultimatum until October 1 to address the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
The group outlined several key demands, including the implementation of a minimum wage, distribution of palliatives, payment of outstanding salaries and arrears, and a reduction in fuel prices. They highlighted that the increasing cost of fuel is a major driver of inflation, particularly impacting food prices.
In their statement, the coalition expressed frustration that, despite their previous protests and a subsequent suspension of further action, the government has yet to make meaningful progress. They criticised a recent government decision to ban students under 18 from taking WAEC and NECO examinations, calling it a “gross misjudgment” that denies youth their right to education.
“The rising cost of fuel has significantly contributed to inflation, especially in food prices. If the petroleum issue is addressed, many other problems will fall into place,” the coalition argued.
The group, which previously suspended protests in hopes of fostering meaningful dialogue with the government, now feels let down. “We made the difficult decision to suspend the protest, believing that both state and federal governments deserved the benefit of the doubt. We hoped that stepping back would create space for constructive dialogue and solutions,” Mr. Adetunji David said. “It is with great disappointment that we find ourselves here today, facing worsening conditions.”
The coalition also expressed concern over the ongoing fuel scarcity, which they say has crippled daily life and driven up the cost of living. The recent ban on WAEC and NECO exams for students under 18 has further fueled their frustration. “This decision not only misplaces priorities but also denies our youth the fundamental right to education and a future,” they added.
The coalition warned that their patience is wearing thin. “We have been reasonable and patient, but we will not be ignored. If the government continues to ignore the cries of the people, they should prepare for a massive protest on October 1,” they declared.
Additionally, the coalition condemned the arrest of #EndBadGovernance protesters in Abuja, including Michael Lenin and Mosiu Sodiq, calling for their immediate release. They also criticised the Osun State government’s recent publication on planned implementations, noting that no tangible progress has been observed.
“The abuse of human rights and unjust detentions must end. We demand that those arrested be released and that the government fulfil its promises,” the coalition concluded.
Multiple passengers injured in BRT Bus collision in Lagos
Several passengers sustained injuries following a late-night collision between two Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) buses in the Iyana Ipaja area of Lagos on Tuesday, August 27.
The accident occurred on the BRT lane along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway, near Danco Filling Station, as reported by the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) on X, formerly Twitter.
According to LASTMA, the injured passengers were promptly transported to a nearby medical facility for treatment.
Head of the public affairs unit at the Lagos State Emergency Management Agency (LASEMA), Nosa Okunbor, explained that the collision happened when a BRT bus travelling towards Iyana Ipaja swerved to avoid hitting a commercial motorcyclist who was using the BRT lane illegally. This manoeuvre resulted in a crash with an oncoming BRT bus.
Okunbor confirmed that no fatalities occurred.
“Passengers on both buses sustained various degrees of injury and were taken to the nearest hospital before our response team arrived,” he stated.
He also noted that two tow trucks were dispatched to clear the accident scene and remove the damaged buses from the road.
