- It is grossly unfair and unjust to the Muslims, who constitite the bulk of the voting public, to be technically excluded from benefitting from such interventions. For the sake of financial inclusivity, government should offer these palliatives at zero interest, to truly bring succor to a people badly scorched by its petrol pricing policies.*
*Photo: President Tinubu*
PRESS RELEASE
The Ummah Movement, with headquarters at the National Islamic Centre, Dogarawa, Zaria has taken note of the three major intervention palliatives announced by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on 1st August, 2023, and joins millions of Muslims in calling on the Federal Government to either waive the interest attached to them or offer interest free windows to enable Muslims access the intervention.
It is grossly unfair and unjust to the Muslims, who constitite the bulk of the voting public, to be technically excluded from benefitting from such interventions. For the sake of financial inclusivity, government should offer these palliatives at zero interest, to truly bring succor to a people badly scorched by its petrol pricing policies.
This strong call by the Ummah Movement refers to the promised N75bn credit to manufacturing enterprises at 9% interest; another loan offer of N500,000 to N1million at 9% interest per annum to 100,000 MSMEs; and offer of N100 billion to the transportation sector, especially transport companies that can access credit under this facility at 9% per annum with 60 months repayment period.
The Muslim Ummah Movement is also deeply worried about the reactions trailing the ouster of the civilian government of Mohammed Bazoum in Niger Republic. We caution against rash sanctions such as cutting-off electricity supply to Niger and any form of military action by ECOWAS. Rather diplomatic pressure, dialogue and soft power should be applied to roll-back the coup, that appears to have originated in a palace power tussle.
Given Nigeria’s dire economic situation, our persistent insecurity threats, the danger of split in ECOWAS and to avoid playing into the hands of enemies of African unity and prosperity, we urge President Tinubu to defer to wisdom and diplomacy to achieve return to normalcy in Niger Republic. May Allah guide his steps, ameen.
Prof. Muhammad Babangida
National Amir, NIC.
NATIONAL ISLAMIC CENTRE, ZARIA PO Box 133, Dogarawa, Zaria, Nigeria.
Friday 4th August, 2023 / 17th Muharram, 1445