President Bola Tinubu has emphasized that the Nigeria he envisions has no tolerance for ethnic bigotry.
During a nationwide broadcast on Sunday morning in Abuja, Tinubu addressed the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests, which have sparked nationwide concern.
He issued a stern warning to those threatening other ethnic groups within the country, stating, “The law will catch up with you.”
The protests, initially planned to last for 10 days and starting on Thursday, aimed to highlight issues such as the rising cost of living and widespread hunger.
Unfortunately, the demonstrations escalated into violent confrontations, resulting in significant property damage and loss of life.
Reports indicated that at least 17 individuals have lost their lives during these “days of rage” protests.
Adding to the chaos, certain individuals took to social media to issue inflammatory threats.
They demanded that all Igbos vacate Lagos State or face massive protests scheduled for August 20-30, 2024.
These posts also called for the indigenes of the South-West residing in the South-Eastern region to return to their homeland before the protests commence.
In response to these divisive threats, Tinubu made it clear that such behaviour is unacceptable.
“To those who have taken undue advantage of this situation to threaten any section of this country, be warned: The law will catch up with you. There is no place for ethnic bigotry or such threats in the Nigeria we seek to build,” he declared.
His statement underscores the government’s commitment to maintaining unity and peace among Nigeria’s diverse population.
Tinubu further elaborated on the importance of upholding constitutional rights, stressing that the nation’s democracy thrives when the rights of all citizens are respected and protected.
“Our democracy progresses when the constitutional rights of every Nigerian are respected and protected,” he added.
This message highlights the administration’s dedication to safeguarding the freedoms and rights enshrined in the nation’s constitution.
The nationwide unrest and the resulting casualties have drawn widespread attention, prompting discussions on how to address the underlying issues fueling the protests.
As the situation develops, the government’s response to both the protests and the threats will be closely monitored.
The emphasis on legal action against those inciting ethnic violence is a significant step towards preserving national harmony.
In conclusion, Tinubu’s address serves as a critical reminder of the importance of unity and the rule of law in Nigeria.
His condemnation of ethnic threats and emphasis on constitutional rights reflect the administration’s broader goals of building a peaceful, inclusive, and democratic nation.
As Nigeria navigates these challenging times, the government’s stance on ethnic harmony and respect for constitutional rights will be pivotal in shaping the country’s future.
