President Bola Tinubu has urged for dialogue and an immediate cessation of the nationwide protests that have swept the country since Thursday.
In a national address on Sunday, he emphasized his administration’s willingness to listen and respond to the demonstrators’ concerns, acknowledging their grievances “loud and clear.”
Tinubu expressed his condolences to the families of those who lost their lives in clashes with security forces and those who suffered property damage due to looting. He appealed to protesters and organizers to suspend further demonstrations and engage in dialogue.
The President highlighted the importance of unity and collective effort from all citizens, regardless of age, political affiliation, ethnicity, or religion, in shaping the nation’s future.
The protests, which began as a response to the rising cost of living and hunger, have escalated into violence, resulting in property destruction and loss of lives.
Amid the unrest, some social media posts threatened ethnic violence, calling for Igbos to leave Lagos State and for South-Westerners in the South-East to return home before planned protests from August 20-30, 2024.
Tinubu condemned these threats, warning that the law would address any acts of ethnic bigotry.
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.
“Our democracy progresses when the constitutional rights of every Nigerian are respected and protected.”
The President told Nigerians, “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. Notably among the protesters were young Nigerians who desired a better and more progressive country where their dreams, hopes, and personal aspirations would be fulfilled.
“I am especially pained by the loss of lives in Borno, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna and other states, the destruction of public facilities in some states, and the wanton looting of supermarkets and shops, contrary to the promise of protest organisers that the protest would be peaceful across the country. The destruction of properties sets us back as a nation, as scarce resources will be again used to restore them.
“I commiserate with the families and relations of those who have died in the protests. We must stop further bloodshed, violence and destruction. As President of this country, I must ensure public order. In line with my constitutional oath to protect the lives and property of every citizen, our government will not stand idly by and allow a few with a clear political agenda to tear this nation apart.”
Addressing the nation, Tinubu expressed sorrow over the turmoil and violent protests, particularly noting the involvement of young Nigerians seeking a better future.
He lamented the loss of lives and the destruction of public and private property, which he said hinder national progress.
Tinubu assured citizens that his government is dedicated to maintaining public order and protecting lives and property.
He called for an end to violence and urged citizens to collaborate in building a better future for all Nigerians.
