A dramatic scene unfolded in Abuja on Monday as a young man, Shuaibu Alhaji Yusuf, threatened to jump from the broadcast mast of Aso Radio and Television on Katampe Hill. Yusuf demanded the Federal Government restore the fuel subsidy and address the country’s growing insecurity.
Yusuf, holding a placard detailing his demands, climbed to the highest point of the mast. He urged the government to declare a state of emergency in Zamfara, Sokoto, Kebbi, Katsina, Kaduna, Niger, and Borno states, emphasizing the need for immediate action against terrorism. Additionally, he called for the reopening of borders for food importation to combat food shortages and urged solutions to the rising issue of out-of-school children.
“The government should immediately respond to the problem of out-of-school children which is increasing rapidly,” Yusuf stated on his placard. “These are the major Nigerian problems and I am ready to sacrifice my life for the solution to them. I am calling on fellow Nigerians to join me in this protest.”
The tense situation was diffused by Mrs. Florence Dawon Wenegieme, Acting Director General of the FCT Emergency Management Department (FEMD). She assured Yusuf that his demands had been noted and would be conveyed to President Bola Tinubu.
“I am very sure that you can come up with ideas and better solutions to see Nigeria through,” Wenegieme said. “We have seen your cries and all that you have written. The Federal Government and the FCT administration are well represented here to ensure this message reaches the President.”
Following Wenegieme’s assurances, Yusuf descended from the mast and was promptly taken into custody by the police.
