NATIONWIDE PROTESTS: Tinubu Calls for Peace, Dialogue …..Promises Economic Relief
By Emmanuel Enebeli
ABUJA/Nigeria: The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has addressed has appealed to Nigerians to eschew violence and live in peace in the face of the ongoing #endbadgovernmentinnigeria and #endhunger protests, urging citizens to suspend further demonstrations and engage in dialogue.
The protests, which began on August 1 and are expected to continue until August 10, have seen widespread unrest across various states, including Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna.
In his broadcast on Sunday, August 4, President Tinubu expressed his sorrow over the loss of lives and the destruction of property.
“I speak to you today with a heavy heart and a sense of responsibility, aware of the turmoil and violent protests unleashed in some of our states,” he stated.
“I am especially pained by the loss of lives in Borno, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, and other states, the destruction of public facilities, and the wanton looting of supermarkets and shops.”
Tinubu emphasised his commitment to maintaining public order and safeguarding the lives and property of every citizen. He warned those who exploit the situation for political gain, stating, “The law will catch up with you. There is no place for ethnic bigotry or such threats in the Nigeria we seek to build.”
The President acknowledged the economic hardships faced by Nigerians and outlined measures taken by his administration to address these issues. He highlighted the removal of fuel subsidies and the abolition of multiple foreign exchange systems as necessary steps to rectify decades of economic mismanagement.
“Our democracy progresses when the constitutional rights of every Nigerian are respected and protected,” Tinubu asserted.
He noted significant strides in economic recovery, including doubling government revenues and reducing the proportion of revenue spent on debt service. “In the past 14 months, our government has made significant strides in rebuilding the foundation of our economy to carry us into a future of plenty and abundance,” he said.
The President also mentioned the launch of the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative aimed at reducing transportation costs and curbing inflation. He encouraged the youth to take advantage of the newly established student loan scheme and other economic empowerment programs.
He called for national unity and collective effort in rebuilding the nation. “Nigeria requires all hands-on deck and needs us all – regardless of age, party, tribe, religion, or other divides, to work together in reshaping our destiny as a nation,” he urged.
He reiterated his vision for a just and prosperous Nigeria, where democratic governance provides peace, freedom, and a meaningful livelihood for all.
“My vision for our country is one of a just and prosperous nation where each person may enjoy the peace, freedom, and meaningful livelihood that only democratic good governance can provide – one that is open, transparent, and accountable to the Nigerian people.”
On the issue of security operatives, he urged security operatives to maintain peace and order responsibly while upholding human rights.
“The safety and security of all Nigerians are paramount,” he declared, ending with a call for unity and hope. “Let us choose hope over fear, unity over division, and progress over stagnation. The economy is recovering; please, don’t shut out its oxygen.” He emphasised.
