The Yoruba socio‑cultural body [Afenifere](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afenifere) issued a stark warning that increasing intolerance and inflammatory remarks from some politicians threaten the credibility of Nigeria’s upcoming 2027 general election, and it condemned the current federal plan to cap petrol at N1,350 per litre as insufficient.
**What resolutions were adopted at the NEC meeting?**
The organisation’s National Executive Committee convened in Lagos over the weekend and produced a communiqué signed by its leader, Oba Oladipo Olaitan, and newly appointed Secretary‑General, Mr Alade Rotimi‑John. The document listed several key demands:
- Immediate reduction of petrol prices to a range of N350‑N400 per litre.
- Urgent review of the N70,000 national minimum wage to offset hyperinflation.
- Assurance that the [Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)](https://www.inecnigeria.org/) operate without interference to guarantee a free and fair 2027 election.
**Why is the current price‑modulation plan deemed inadequate?**
The leaders cited the announcement by the [Minister of Finance Taiwo Oyedele](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taiwo_Oyedele) to stabilise fuel at no more than N1,350 per litre, describing it as “a far cry from the expectation of the people.” They argued that only a drastic cut to N350‑N400 would make the fuel affordable for ordinary Nigerians.
**What concerns were raised about the economy and welfare?**
Afenifere expressed deep anxiety over a “pervasive climate of hardship, hunger and hyperinflation” that they say defines the present administration. They accused the [Federal Government](https://www.nigeria.gov.ng/) of neglecting its core responsibilities in safety, security, the economy and overall well‑being.
**What specific quote highlighted the issue of political intolerance?**
The communiqué condemned certain political figures for making “reckless, inflammatory and inciting statements, thus heating up the polity and constricting the democratic space.”
**Who attended the meeting and what other matters were noted?**
The gathering confirmed Mr Rotimi‑John as the substantive Secretary‑General and offered condolences to Mr Leke Adefala on the loss of his wife. Attendees included Omo‑Oba Supo Shonibare, former Lagos Deputy Governor Senator Kofo Bucknor‑Akerele, and several other prominent Afenifere chieftains.
The organisation urged the government to adopt civilised electioneering practices aligned with global standards and to ensure that the electoral body can function independently, thereby safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic future.
