The Olowu of Kuta in Ayedire Local Government of Osun, Oba Hameed Oyelude, has appealed to President Bola Tinubu to reopen the nation’s border with Benin Republic. Mr Oyelude made this appeal in a chat with journalists on Sunday in his palace in Kuta. He said that reopening the border would ease the burden of Nigerians economically. However, he acknowledged that at the time the Benin Republic border was closed, the Federal Government was protecting the economy of the country.

Mr Oyelude also urged Nigerians to be patient with the President, noting that he meant well for the country by removing the subsidy on fuel. He stated that the gain of the removal of fuel subsidy is coming, but it may not be immediate. And that is why Nigerians need to be patient with the President, adding that we will surely get there.

Furthermore, he urged the federal government not to completely take every advice and policy of the International Monetary Fund (IMF). Mr Oyelude said that although there was nothing wrong with domesticating IMF ideas and policies, the same must be done in a way that would suit the country. He acknowledged that there is an economic downturn and it is a challenge that the country is going through, but he believes we will overcome it as a country.