The Olowu of Kuta in the Ayedire Local Government of Osun, Oba Hameed Oyelude, has pleaded with President Bola Tinubu to reopen the country’s border with the Republic of Benin.
In an interview with reporters on Sunday at his Kuta palace, Oba Oyelude made the appeal, claiming that the reopening of the border would lessen the financial burden on Nigerians.
“At the time the Benin Republic border was closed, the Federal Government was protecting the economy of the country.
“But I want to urge the President to look at the possibility of reopening the border to ease the pain of Nigerians,” he said.
Oba Oyelude also asked Nigerians to exercise patience with the President, pointing out that by eliminating the fuel subsidy, he was acting in the nation’s best interests.
“The gain of the removal of fuel subsidy is coming, but it may not be immediate. And that is why we need to be patient with the President.
“Let us give this administration time. We will surely get there,” the traditional ruler pleaded.
He urged the Federal Government not to completely take every advice and policy of the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Oba Oyelude said although there was nothing wrong in domesticating IMF ideas and policies, but the same must be done in a way that will suit the country.
“There is economic downturn and it is a challenge that we are going through, but I believe we will overcome it as a country,” he said.
