Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has claimed that widespread anger and hunger across Nigeria as the driving forces behind an imminent nationwide protest. His remarks came during the grand finale of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Week, an event organized by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
Governor Makinde addressed the gathering at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, the state capital, where he acknowledged the rising discontent among Nigerians. The protest, scheduled for August 1, is a response to the severe economic hardships faced by many citizens.
“Yes, protest is everybody’s right. But remember that we used your money to build all the structures and facilities we have put in place in this state, not mine,” Makinde said, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace during demonstrations.
He urged those planning to participate in the protest to exercise their rights responsibly, warning against violence and the destruction of public property. “If you begin your protest, don’t destroy government properties, otherwise, we will have to use the money we are supposed to spend on meaningful projects to replace facilities that may get destroyed,” he added.
The governor’s appeal for a peaceful protest underscores the government’s concern about potential damage to public infrastructure. He stressed that any harm to government facilities would detract from the funds available for other vital projects aimed at improving the state’s welfare.
Makinde’s statements reflect a broader concern about the state of the nation, where many Nigerians are grappling with economic difficulties. His call for non-violent protests aims to balance the right to demonstrate with the need to preserve public resources and infrastructure.
