Bola Ahmed Tinubu, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria has called on. protesters and the organisers to suspend any further protest and create room for dialogue
Tinubu in a broadcast to
the nation on the ongoing nationwide protests and the resulting violence that have unfolded across several states said “With a heavy heart, the President expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of lives and the wanton destruction of public and private properties.”
While acknowledging the legitimate grievances of the young protesters, who were seeking a better and more progressive Nigeria, President Tinubu emphasized the need to stop further bloodshed, violence, and destruction.
Reaffirming his constitutional duty to protect the lives and property of every Nigerian citizen, the President made it clear that his government will not idly stand by and allow a few with a political agenda to tear the nation apart.
He warned those who have taken advantage of the situation to threaten any section of the country that the law will catch up with them, as there is no place for ethnic bigotry or such threats in the Nigeria he seeks to build.
The president outlined the significant strides his administration has made in rebuilding the foundation of the Nigerian economy over the past 14 months. He highlighted the substantial increase in government revenues, the reduction in debt service spending, the resurgence of the oil and gas industry, and the substantial investments in infrastructure projects across the country.
Addressing the youth, the President emphasized his administration’s commitment to empowering them through various initiatives, including the student loan scheme, the Digital and Creative Enterprises (IDiCE) program, the Skill-Up Artisans Programme (SUPA), the Nigerian Youth Academy (NIYA), and the National Youth Talent Export Programme (NATEP). He also announced the distribution of a million kits for the Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative, aimed at reducing transportation costs and curbing inflation.
He however reaffirmed his commitment to listening and addressing the concerns of the Nigerian people, while maintaining that security operatives will continue to uphold peace, law, and order in the country, following the necessary conventions on human rights.
The concluding part of his speech reads:
“My dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration that drive these protests, and I want to assure you that our government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens.’
‘But we must not let violence and destruction tear our nation apart. We must work together to build a brighter future, where every Nigerian can live with dignity and prosperity”
“The task before us is a collective one, and I am leading the charge as your President. A lot of work has gone into stabilising our economy and I must stay focused on ensuring that the benefits reach every single Nigerian as promised.’
” My administration is working very hard to improve and expand our national infrastructure and create more opportunities for our young people.”
” Let nobody misinform and miseducate you about your country or tell you that your government does not care about you. Although there have been many dashed hopes in the past, we are in a new era of Renewed Hope. We are working hard for you, and the results will soon be visible and concrete for everyone to see, feel, and enjoy.”
“Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Let us choose hope over fear, unity over division, and progress over stagnation. The economy is recovering; Please, don’t shut out its oxygen. Now that we have been enjoying democratic governance for 25 years, do not let the enemies of democracy use you to promote an unconstitutional agenda that will set us back on our democratic journey. FORWARD EVER, BACKWARD NEVER!”
“In conclusion, security operatives should continue to maintain peace, law, and order in our country following the necessary conventions on human rights, to which Nigeria is a signatory. The safety and security of all Nigerians are paramount.”
