The Nigerian Federal Government, in response to a planned nationwide protest set for August 1st, has scheduled an emergency meeting for Wednesday morning. President Bola Tinubu has urged protest organizers to cancel their plans, asking for more time to implement his administration’s programs aimed at benefiting the populace.
A circular on Tuesday, signed by Permanent Secretary Richard Pheelangwah, announced that the meeting would involve all ministers, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, and several of the President’s special advisers. The circular emphasized that attendance was mandatory.
The protest, driven by frustration over rising living costs and economic hardships attributed to recent government policies like the removal of fuel subsidies and the naira’s floating, has gained significant support on social media under hashtags such as ‘EndBadGovernance,’ ‘TinubuMustGo,’ and ‘#Revolution2024.’
The government has called the protest ill-advised. The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, conveyed President Tinubu’s plea to cancel the protest, emphasizing the administration’s commitment to addressing the citizens’ concerns. Idris cited measures like the speedy passage of the National Minimum Wage Bill and the distribution of grains to state governments as proof of the government’s dedication to improving living conditions.
The Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, expressed concerns about the potential for violence, recalling the destructive aftermath of the 2020 #EndSARS protests. He assured that the police would protect citizens and property and prevent any disorder during the planned demonstrations.
The Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, labeled the protest calls as treasonable, accusing opposition figures of seeking to undermine the government. However, the Labour Party denied involvement, advocating for peaceful demonstrations and warning against government overreach.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar defended the constitutional right to protest, urging the government to respect citizens’ rights and address their grievances. He criticized efforts to suppress peaceful protests, calling it an affront to democracy.
