In a heartfelt appeal to Nigerians, Kakalistiq.com reports that Rep. Wale Raji, the Member representing Epe Federal Constituency at the House of Representatives, urged patience and support for President Bola Tinubu’s efforts to navigate the country out of its economic challenges.
Speaking in Epe on Tuesday, July 30, 2024, during the distribution of free fertilizers to local farmers, Rep. Raji emphasized the need for calm, discouraging protests that could escalate into unrest, while highlighting the ongoing initiatives by the president to address food security and improve living conditions.
“The message is clear. Mr. President has not forgotten us, and that is why he has sent this. We want to appreciate the President for what he has done, and on our own part, we will bear the cost of transporting it to your farm. Mr. President has given you free fertilizer to reduce the cost of production, so let it reflect on your goods,” Rep. Raji stated.
The distribution, part of a larger strategy to combat the rising cost of food, saw Epe Federal Constituency receive 384 bags of NPK 20-10-10 fertilizer—formulated with nitrogen, potassium, and urea which suit the local soil. Rep. Raji explained that each of the 360 legislators was allotted 600 bags of fertilizer, and although Epe’s full quota is yet to arrive, the decision to proceed with distribution was driven by the need for timely access.
“The balance of 216 is not yet delivered and will get to you when it’s delivered. Why we have decided not to wait for the rest is timeliness. The fertilizer must be available at the right time, the right quantity, the right price, and the right place,” he added.
Addressing the rising national issue of protests, Rep. Raji acknowledged the widespread economic difficulties but reassured constituents that the government is attentive to their concerns. He pointed to the global nature of the crisis, emphasizing that it did not begin with President Tinubu’s administration. However, he praised the President’s proactive measures, including the sale of crude to local refineries in Naira to mitigate the impact of foreign exchange fluctuations.
“That is a bold step that Mr. President has taken to address the problem of fluctuating costs of petroleum products in Nigeria, which is highly commendable. Therefore, I will appeal that there’s no need for protests. You’ve spoken, and we have a listening government that is reacting to our complaints. Let us appeal to our children that things will get better,” Rep. Raji urged, referencing the scars left by the EndSARS protests in Lagos as a cautionary tale.
Rep. Raji also assured ongoing support for livestock development, particularly in piggery, aquaculture, and poultry farming, underscoring the importance of sustainable agricultural practices for the constituency’s prosperity.
The event was graced by key figures including the APC State Welfare Secretary, Epe LG Chairman, Epe’s Secretary to the LG, Eredo LCDA Chairman, Eredo LCDA Leader of the House, and various farmer associations.
