The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has explained why it opposes planned protests over the current economic conditions in the country. While affirming the constitutional right of Nigerians to protest, the government expresses concerns that some individuals might hijack the demonstrations to create unrest.
In a recent statement made during a meeting with the Charismatic Bishop Conference in Abuja, Idris emphasized that President Bola Tinubu’s administration recognizes and respects the right of every Nigerian to engage in peaceful protests. However, he stressed the government’s responsibility to ensure that these activities do not disrupt public order or infringe on the rights of others.
“The government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu believes in everyone’s freedom within the laws to do what he thinks is right for him. Therefore, the President is not an opponent of protests of any kind but is an opponent of violence and anything that will negatively impact the well-being of Nigerians,” Idris stated. He underscored that while protests are a democratic right, the potential for these events to escalate into violence makes them a concern.
Idris pointed out that recent global events have shown how protests can quickly turn violent, leading to chaos and disruption. “We know that it’s almost impossible to hold this protest and then have peace at the end of the day. We cannot do that because some people are waiting to take the laws into their own hands,” he explained.
The minister acknowledged the genuine concerns and complaints expressed by Nigerians across the nation. He assured that President Tinubu is actively working to implement effective policies aimed at alleviating the challenges faced by citizens and bringing relief to all Nigerians. One such policy includes providing stipends to unemployed university and polytechnic graduates pending their formal employment in any sector of the economy.
Idris elaborated on this initiative, saying, “There is also another new policy that the President has formulated, which will be seen very soon. This policy ensures that all young men and women who have finished universities and polytechnics, completed their mandatory NYSC, and have not been able to get jobs will receive something from the government to keep them afloat until they find employment.”
In a gesture of support, the President General of the Charismatic Bishops Conference, Archbishop Leonard Kawas, dissociated the conference from the planned national protest. He revealed that the conference had been approached by some groups to join the protest but chose instead to advocate for peace and dialogue.
“Your Excellency, recently we received some calls from other religious organizations and other groups asking us to join in preparation for a nationwide protest starting on August 1, 2024. We are here to let you know that we do not think the same. We have rather decided to call for a truce,” Archbishop Kawas said. He emphasized the importance of giving the government time to address the grievances while continuing to engage in constructive communication and negotiation.
It is worth recalling that some Nigerians, under the banner of #EndbadgovernanceinNigeria#, have threatened to embark on protests from August 1 to August 10, 2024, due to the prevailing economic hardships. This movement reflects widespread dissatisfaction with the economic situation and demands more effective governance and accountability.
The Federal Government’s stance on the planned protests reflects a broader concern for maintaining stability and preventing violence. While acknowledging the right to protest, the government stresses the importance of ensuring that such activities do not lead to disorder. This position has sparked debate among Nigerians, with some supporting the government’s cautious approach and others advocating for the right to demonstrate.
