Nigeria's President Bola Tinubu has called for a suspension of protests against the cost of living crisis, urging citizens to create an opportunity for dialogue. This marks his first public response since frustrated citizens took to the streets last week.

Amnesty International reported that at least 13 people were killed in clashes with security forces on the first day of protests last Thursday. However, police denied using excessive force, stating that seven people had died as of Saturday: four from an explosive device during a march in Borno state, two who were hit by a car, and another who was shot by a guard when protesters looted a shop.

In a televised address, Tinubu appealed for an end to the violence that has erupted in several states since the protests began. He emphasized his openness to dialogue. "My dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration that drive these protests, and I want to assure you that our government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens," he said.

Nigerians have been mobilizing online to organize protests against economic hardship and poor governance. They are demanding reductions in petrol prices and electricity tariffs, among other issues.

Since taking office in May 2023, Tinubu has implemented economic reforms, including a partial end to petrol and electricity subsidies and the devaluation of the naira. He defended these measures as necessary to reverse years of economic mismanagement.

Tinubu highlighted that government revenues more than doubled to 9.1 trillion naira ($5.65 billion) in the first half of the year. Additionally, the proportion of revenue allocated to debt servicing has decreased to 68%, down from 97% before he assumed office. The government is also increasing spending on infrastructure projects, launching a loan scheme for university students, and constructing thousands of housing units across Nigeria's 36 states.

"But we must not let violence and destruction tear our nation apart," Tinubu stressed.