Traditional rulers have called for calm over the planned nationwide protest to demonstrate against the prevailing economic hardship in Nigeria. 

The protest which is billed to begin from the 1st of August, 2024 has garnered traction on social media, prompting a meeting between traditional and President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

Addressing the press after the meeting, the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi called for caution so the protest would not be hijacked.

He stressed that the doors of their palaces are opened to engagement with the people, promising to return home for further consultation with aggrieved residents. 

Thursday’s meeting is part of a last-minute push by the President Tinubu administration – which has come under severe criticism over its policies – to avert the planned protest.