Tinubu meets traditional rulers amid growing condemnation of planned protests

By Kunle Sanni

President Bola Tinubu is currently meeting with traditional rulers at the Aso Rock Villa, Abuja. The delegation of royal fathers is led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.

The meeting commenced at approximately 2:30 p.m. when President Tinubu arrived at the Council Chamber.

Although the agenda of the meeting remains undisclosed, it is speculated to address the growing concerns about the planned public demonstration to protest economic hardship, scheduled for August 1-10, 2024.

In attendance are Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun.

Also present are Governors Abdulrazaq Abdulrahman of Kwara State, Chairman of the Nigeria Governors Forum, and Hope Uzodinma of Imo State, who chairs the Progressives Governors Forum.

The Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun, and the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Atiku Bagudu, also joined President Tinubu at the meeting.

According to Western Post, Tinubu previously held talks with APC Governors at the Villa. However, the Governors did not brief the press following that meeting.