Nigerians Scramble to Stockpile Foodstuffs as Tinubu’s Move Sparks Uncertainty

 

Fears Grow Over Economic Stability and Niger Delta Peace

A wave of uncertainty has swept across Nigeria following a major decision by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu that many believe could have dire consequences for the nation. Citizens have taken to stockpiling food, fuel, and other necessities, fearing that the president’s latest policy could trigger economic hardship and security instability.

The move, which many analysts say undermines the hard-won peace secured through the Niger Delta amnesty program initiated by the late President Umaru Musa Yar’Adua, has sent shockwaves across the country. In response, Nigerians are scrambling to prepare for what they fear could be turbulent times ahead.

Memories of Hardship Resurface

Since the implementation of Yar’Adua’s amnesty program in 2009, the Niger Delta—once a hotbed of militancy and economic sabotage—has experienced relative peace, allowing oil production to stabilize and the economy to benefit. The program provided ex-militants with financial support, education, and vocational training, reducing attacks on oil installations and improving security in the region.

However, with Tinubu’s recent action, many fear that all these gains are now at risk. The decision, the details of which have not been fully disclosed, is believed to either withdraw support for or significantly alter the amnesty framework, leaving thousands of ex-militants and their dependents in uncertainty. Without a clear alternative, there are growing concerns that jobless youths might return to the creeks, resuming attacks on oil facilities and plunging the nation back into economic distress.

A resident of Warri, Delta State, who preferred to remain anonymous, expressed his concerns:
"We’ve seen this happen before. When the government neglects these young men, they find a way to survive, and that usually means trouble for the oil sector. If that happens, fuel prices will skyrocket, and life will become unbearable for everyone."

Economic Fears: Buy What You Can While You Can

Apart from the security concerns, Nigerians are already bracing for economic hardship. Prices of essential goods have been on the rise, and with the looming uncertainty, citizens are rushing to secure whatever supplies they can. Fuel stations are witnessing longer queues as people stockpile petrol in fear of potential supply disruptions. Food markets are also experiencing panic buying, with traders reporting increased demand for staple items like rice, beans, and garri.

A trader at Mile 12 Market in Lagos described the growing panic:
"People are buying in bulk like they did during the COVID lockdown. Once people sense trouble, they don’t wait. The prices of things have already gone up in just a few days."

With inflation already squeezing households, any disruption to Nigeria’s oil-dependent economy could worsen an already difficult situation. Experts warn that instability in the Niger Delta would not only impact crude oil production but also weaken the naira and drive up the cost of living.

What Next?

While the government has yet to fully explain the implications of Tinubu’s latest move, Nigerians are not taking any chances. The lessons of past economic crises have taught many to prepare in advance, and the current rush for essentials is a clear sign that the people do not have confidence in the government’s ability to manage the fallout.

The question now is whether Tinubu will reconsider or implement measures to prevent a return to the dark days of militancy and economic turmoil. Until then, uncertainty reigns, and for many Nigerians, the message is clear: buy what you can before it’s too late.