Victor Ezeja
As Nigerian youths mobilise to embark on nationwide protests beginning Thursday, 1 August, the Federal Government has expressed concern that bandits and insurgents may hijack the exercise to cause chaos across the country.
This was disclosed in a statement issued by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, (SGF), George Akume, who addressed newsmen at Radio House Abuja on Wednesday.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelAkume said: “Government is weary of the dangers associated with protests that are vulnerable to being highjacked by bandits, insurgents and other criminals.”
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He urged the protesters to engage in dialogue than mobilising to the streets in protests, adding that the government is ever ready to listen to their yearnings.
The SGF said that the current current economic hardships in the country would soon fizzle out, giving way for endless prosperity to be enjoyed by the citizens.
“We, therefore, appeal to Nigerians of whatever persuasion, belief, demography, gender, and status to shun calls for protest against hunger by prioritising peace and progress. For the avoidance of doubts, the government of President Tinubu recognises the right to peaceful protest but circumspection and vigilance should be our watchwords.”
He added that the Federal Government’s appeal is that Nigerians should pursue the path of peace, dialogue, and collaboration in addressing the challenges that collectively confront the country, urging them go about their legitimate businesses and avoid actions and or gatherings that are capable of disturbing the peace of the country.”
Prime Business Africa had reported that President Tinubu last week appealed to Nigerians to give his administration more time to fix the problems in the country.
The proposed nationwide protest scheduled to take place from 1st to 10th August has been generating mixed reactions. While some support the protest, others oppose it.
Various security agencies such as the military, Department of State Service (DSS) and the police have all warned it may be hijacked by some elements to chaos and turn the country into anarchy.
Following the insistence of the organisers, police bowed to pressure and the Inspector General of Police directed all CPs and DIGs to offer protection to protesters during the exercise.
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Akume said the current economic and security challenges in the country were inherited from past administrations. He said President Tinubu’s administration is preoccupied with resolving the challenges through strategic policies set in place and that the cooperation of all is needed to achieve the goal.
“Economic prosperity for the nation remains the ultimate goal of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu because it is the engine that drives progress, lifts families from poverty, and builds strong, resilient societies.
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“To achieve this goal, we must enjoy peace and stability because it is the cornerstone upon which we build trust, cooperation, and shared purpose. When peace reigns, policies yield results, businesses thrive, investments flourish, and creativity is unleashed.
Victor Ezeja is a passionate journalist with seven years of experience writing on economy, politics and energy. He holds a Master's degree in Mass Communication.
