The Nation Newspaper

Tag: protest

  • Protest: Miscreants clash over cash gift in Agege

    Protest: Miscreants clash over cash gift in Agege

    Chaos erupted at the Oke Koto roundabout, leading towards Agege Pen Cinema underbridge and Iyana Ipaja Lagos when a group of miscreants engaged in a violent altercation.

    The unexpected clash sent shockwaves through the area, leaving residents, security personnel, and passersby on high alert for over 10 minutes.

    The tension only subsided after it was revealed that the brawl had been sparked by a dispute over money.

    Read Also; Make protest peaceful, says NADECO USA

    Someone had handed the group a sum of cash, but the failure to distribute it evenly led to clash.

    As the situation unfolded, many found were stranded with a noticeable scarcity of commercial and private vehicles on the usually bustling roads.

    The usually congested streets, where buses and cars vie for space, have become deserted due to the nationwide protest.

  • No protest as markets, shops remain shut in Ondo

    No protest as markets, shops remain shut in Ondo

    There is not yet gathering of protesters in Akure, the Ondo State capital.

    Reports from Ondo town said there were no protest going on.

    Markets and shops were closed for businesses.

    Traders at the Oja-Oba were seen playing football along the busy Oba Adesida Road.

    Hot zones used by protesters like Road Block area along the Akure-Ilesha highway, Oba Adesida road were deserted.

    Commercial drivers and motor cyclists known as okada carried out their duties.

    Read Also; Make protest peaceful, says NADECO USA

    There were heavy security presence at strategic locations around Akure and environs.

    It was gathered that protest did not hold in Ondo State because various stakeholders were approached and talked out of the protest.

    Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa met with students of Ondo State origin in tertiary institutions.

    The students under the auspices of National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), National Association of University Students (NAUS), National Association of Ondo State Students (NAOSS), National Female Students Association and indigenous student associations in the State, said they would not join the protest.

    They promised Governor Aiyedatiwa that they would not to be part of any planned protests in the State.

    The Ondo Governor also met with various driver unions in the state.

    Social media influencers in the state also met with notable figures in the State.

    Traditional rulers were involved in talking to youth leaders in Akure and other communities.

    Organisers of the ‘Endbadgovernance’ protest in Ondo State, the Concerned Revolutionary Youths, on Thursday, pulled out of the protest.

    Secretary of the group, Ogundipe Seyi, said they uncovered plot by some miscreants to set the state ablaze under the guise of protesting.

  • Lagos residents march against no violent protests

    Lagos residents march against no violent protests

    A group of residents under #DefendNigeriaMovement marched on the streets of Alausa in Lagos against violent protests.

    They were distributing flyers  and carrying placard of various inscriptions like “Don’t collapse the roof, Let’s promote peace”;  ‘Dialogue to end hunger” and  ‘Don’t instigate more suffering,’ among others. 

    Explaining the reason for the convener, Comrade Olokoba Rasaq insisted that theirs is not a protest but a rally.

    He said: ” Ours is not a protest but a rally of ‘No to Violence Protest.’  What we dey out to do is noble but the methodology is wrong. 

    Read Also; Make protest peaceful, says NADECO USA

    “Why would it take Atiku and Obi to be speaking for activists like me? Why would it take three weeks to a month for “Onagoruwa  and Falana  to come out to say they  are our lawyers? 

    “I started this initiative a week ago when my co-conveners  gathered to form a coalition,  Defend Nigeria Movement. We didn’t hide, we have identity. 

    “Anybody that does not have this bandana is not part of us. We have had protests that have been hijacked  severally by hoodlums and this challenge is all over the world. It is a universal standard to protest. Let people know your clear intention. It has been muddled up. 

    “Ours is a rally to say that whatever protest you are going to do, don’t plot us against each other but make your point.

    “We are just a mediator where the government must listen to what the people are saying and where protesters must also conduct themselves in such a way the protest would not be hijacked and that is our concern.”

  • Enugu residents stay indoors over protest

    Enugu residents stay indoors over protest

    Fear-stricken residents of Enugu, the Enugu State capital, remained indoors on Thursday over the planned nationwide protest. 

    Shops, banks, markets and public and private offices were closed, bringing economic activities to a halt.

    The usually bustling Ogbete Holy Ghost axis, streets and major roads were empty with few people seen at bus stops. 

    The Nation correspondent, who moved around the metropolis, observed the city was deserted, with many residents opting to stay at home rather than risk venturing out.

    Read Also; Make protest peaceful, says NADECO USA

    However, a notable exception was seen at Mayor Market, Agbani Road, Enugu as few traders were spotted as of 9:30am in the market. Most of them were seen groups discussing the consequences of the protest.

    At Ogbete, Kenyatta, Gariki and New Market, Emene, the markets were open but traders did not come out. Students of tertiary institutions within the state also stayed indoors.

    It was gathered the reason for not coming out by residents was panic over sporadic gunshots on Wednesday in Owerri, Imo State. 

    “With what happened in Owerri yesterday where they were shooting anyhow, it is only a person who doesn’t know what goes on around Igboland that will come out for business.

    “If it happened in Imo like that, that means, we should be careful wherever we are,”,

     a resident, Chidi Obumneme, told our correspondent.

  • Business, commercial activities on hold in Ibadan over protest

    Business, commercial activities on hold in Ibadan over protest

    Business and commercial activities were on Thursday partially paralysed in some areas in Ibadan, the Oyo State capital, as the ongoing nationwide protest continues to take its toll on the city. 

    The protest has make it difficult for people to move around.

    Commuters are trekking long distances to get to their destinations, as commercial vehicles have withdrawn their services due to the protests. 

    Read Also; Make protest peaceful, says NADECO USA

    This caused untold hardship to many residents who rely on public transportation to get to work, school, and other important engagements.

    The town is largely deserted with many shops, markets and offices closed due to the protests. 

    The few people seen on the streets are either protesters or those who are trying to find alternative routes to their destinations.

    The protests, which started on Thursday morning, has been peaceful so far but the disruption to economic activities is being felt across the city.

  • Heavy security as protesters converge on MKO Stadium Abuja

    Heavy security as protesters converge on MKO Stadium Abuja

    The Moshood Abiola Stadium, Abuja is heavily guarded as #EndBadGovernance protesters kick started their action.

    Armed security personnel are present to maintain order and enforce the court’s restrictions.

    In accordance with a court order limiting their activities to the designated venue, protesters assembled at the facility as early as 6 am, singing solidarity songs.

    Read Also; Make protest peaceful, says NADECO USA

    Human Rights Activist, Deji Adeyanju is leading the protest.

    But the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Commissioner of Police (CP), Bennet Igweh is on ground and asking the protesters to move into the stadium instead of protesting outside

    But the protesters are insisting that they have the right to protest outside the stadium. 

    Details shortly ……

  • JUST IN: Heavy security as August 1 protesters begin march in Lagos

    JUST IN: Heavy security as August 1 protesters begin march in Lagos

    Dozens of protesters have gathered at the Ikeja underbridge in Lagos.

    They are singing and dancing and expected to march from there to other parts of Ikeja.

    The organisers, many of them young people, say they are frustrated by the economic conditions and have vowed “days of rage” in demonstrations.

    Read Also; Make protest peaceful, says NADECO USA

    The Nation observed heavy security presence including operatives of the Lagos State Anti-Crime Outfit – Rapid Response Squad (RRS) with patrol vans, heavy anti-riot gun trucks and Black Marias. 

    Details shortly… 

  • Protest: Agege streets deserted

    Protest: Agege streets deserted

    The typically bustling streets of Agege have been left deserted in anticipation of the protest set to begin today.

    As at 8:00 am, places like the Oniwaya Market, typically alive with the sounds of traders and shoppers, were ghostly quiet, and their gates closed.

    In an area known for its constant activity, the emptiness was visible. 

    From Mongoro bus stop, through Capitol Road to Oniwaya, and stretching to Dopemu, Agege Pen Cinema under the bridge, Oko Oba, and Abule Egba, the roads that are typically packed with vehicles and pedestrians were deserted. 

    Read Also; Make protest peaceful, says NADECO USA

    Only a few commercial vehicles dared to move, their presence was limited, in contrast to the regular influx of buses and cars competing for space.

    Security forces, including the Nigerian Army, Nigerian Police Force, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), and the Lagos State Neighbourhood Safety Agency (LNSC), were seen patrolling to maintain peace.

    A resident who wants to be anonymous said: “This area is not like this. They don’t even sleep. The people are scared to come out because they don’t know what the protest will look like. If you think it will be peaceful and it turn out to be violent, no one would know. I believe that is why they are trying to stay indoor and stay safe.”

  • Why protest is unnecessary, by Akume, Edun, Bagudu, Alake

    Why protest is unnecessary, by Akume, Edun, Bagudu, Alake

    • Court limits protesters to Abuja Stadium, four places in Ogun

    Key Federal Government functionaries yesterday gave reasons why the planned protest is unnecessary.

    Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, Ministers Wale Edun (Finance), Atiku Bagudu (Budget and Planning), Dele Alake (Solid Minerals Development) and Mohammed Idris (Information and National Orientation) urged promoters to shelve the plan.

    According to them, Nigerians should give more time to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to implement critical reforms that will herald a new lease of life, adding that better days are coming.

    The ministers and Special Adviser to President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, appealed to the potential protesters to have a rethink.

    They spoke during a news conference in Abuja, giving facts and figures on why there is no basis for the protest.

    They said the government was wary of protests being hijacked by bandits, insurgents and other criminals.

    The Federal Executive Council (FEC) members said while protest is a constitutional right, circumspection should be the watchword.

    They urged the citizens to go about their legitimate businesses and avoid actions capable of disturbing the peace of the country.

    Also yesterday, Works Minister Dave Umahi, Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru and former Senate President Pius Anyim cautioned the planners to pull the brakes.

    In Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu appealed to the organisers to retrace their steps, saying that protests could reverse the gains of bold reforms recorded by the Tinubu administration. 

    One of the legal advisers to the organisers, Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa (SAN), advised them to reduce the protest days and be peaceful.

    In Abuja, a High Court restricted the protesters to the Moshood Abiola Stadium while a High Court in Abeokuta also restricted protesters in Ogun State to four locations.

    Pursue path of peace

    Akume appealed to the protesters to pursue the path of peace, dialogue and collaboration, assuring that the country would soon heave a sigh of relief.

    He said: “The ongoing economic hardship will abate very soon and we shall all enjoy endless prosperity.

    “I appeal to Nigerians of whatever persuasion, belief, demography, gender and status to shun calls for protest  against hunger by prioritising peace and progress.”

    He added:” For the avoidance of doubts, the government of President Tinubu recognises the right to peaceful protest but circumspection and vigilance should be our watchwords.”

    Akume said the government was pleading because the protests may be hijacked by bandits and insurgents.

    He said: “Government is wary of the dangers associated with protests that are vulnerable to being hijacked by bandits, insurgents and other criminals. Rather, we request that dialogue should be advanced and we remain open to such.

    “Our appeal is that Nigerians should please, pursue the path of peace, dialogue and collaboration in addressing the challenges that collectively confront us.

    “Please, go about your legitimate businesses and avoid actions and/or associations that are capable of disturbing the peace of the country. Remain vigilant as well.”

    Akume said President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would not disappoint the nation, adding: “Together, we shall create a Nigeria where peace and stability are not merely aspirations but realities, where economic growth is not just a goal but a tangible outcome, and where the dreams of our people are transformed into a shared national destiny.”

    Protest will slow down reforms

    Edun said: “Mr. President is a democrat to the core. He believes in federalism; he believes in freedom of speech and human rights.

    “His concern and that of many people in this country, and even beyond, is that the protest would remain peaceful such that the gains that have been made over the last 12 to 15 months should not be disillusioned.

    “He is concerned that the momentum that has been achieved in turning around the economy should not be dislodged, or disturbed.

    “I think, among many other well-meaning Nigerians, the President truly understands the concerns that are being expressed, particularly the high and the elevated cost of living,  which is not particularly good for Nigeria at this stage.

    “With wars breaking out in Gaza and Sudan, there’s disruption around the world, and there has not even been a full recovery from COVID.”

    He added: “So, inflation is high around the world. Costs are high around the world.  And with our import dependency on raw materials and so forth, we, too, are feeling the effects.

    “However, inflation is falling around the world, and in Nigeria. Over the last 15 months or so, the economy has been totally, and I will even say, dissimulated from the precipice.

    “I will not repeat all the specifics of the initiatives that were written down by the Minister of Information and National Orientation. Mallam Mohammed Idris but I will conclude with them.

    “I think that, on one hand, we have come from a situation where the nation was living in debt. That is no longer the case.

    “The revenue of Nigeria as a result of diligent accumulation of technology and new processes, has doubled compared to the first half of 2023.

    “In 2024, the revenue from the Federal Government has doubled and is expected to maintain that trajectory.

    “On the cost side, there has been reconfiguration of procedures and processes, such that costs are now under control.

    “Spending is now visible and accountable and the money of Nigerians is being well spent.

    “So, that was the basis on which we implemented measures that were necessary, reform measures that were needed to save the economy.

    “Yes, they have led initially to a spike in costs because, just like medicine, you take the medicine and then the effect comes. So, the cost is the medicine and it comes first.

    “However, already we are seeing that the benefits are coming. The economy, in the first half of this year, has grown. 

    “Why is there a lack of food? It is because agriculture was contracting. In the first quarter of this year, it has started growing back again and we expect that and we are doing everything to maintain that.

    “Industry is growing. Led by ICT technology, led by solid minerals, it is growing and creating employment and likewise, of course, services, even at a relatively high scale, the services are also growing.

    “So, that is the turnaround and the momentum that we do not want to see slowed down in any way.

    “A series of measures in agriculture, for small-scale industry, even for the larger industries, there is financing at nine per cent that is being made available.

    “For transportation costs, CNG, which is 30 per cent of the cost of PMS  for fueling vehicles, is being made available.

    “In implementing reforms, there are times when what is planned and the timetable sometimes slips.

    “But the answer is not to throw out the effort. The answer is not to stop.  The answer is to keep going and keep trying. That was the case with the direct benefits, the direct payments to 15 million households, covering 75 million people.

    “At first, it was quite hard for me to plan, so there was a pause. And now, under a much better and technologically strong configuration, payments to individuals have started going out again.

    “In the last six years, it was restarted. One million households, covering five million people, have received benefits. And in the last week alone, 300,000 payments were made.

    “So, under the new system, we can expect a scaling up, a speeding up of the payments.

    “And Mr. President is committed to giving to the poorest and the most vulnerable to help them.

    “What has happened is that we have implemented a comprehensive plan that covers agriculture, covers young people, it covers transportation costs in the urban sector, it covers grants to smaller enterprises, N50,000 for micro-enterprises, and it covers, as I said earlier,  funding at an affordable interest rate. Inflation is slowing, but interest rates are still high.

    “We have heard about the other key elements of what is being done to get the economy growing and to get jobs created. It’s when you make investments that you increase productivity, that you grow the economy, you create jobs, and then reduce poverty.

    “And the key element there also is that our major resource, what we have to rely on most, is the God-given resource of oil at a time when crude oil prices are high.

    Read Also: IG, First Lady, Adegboruwa warn against protest hijack

    “And we have the commitment of those in charge of the oil industry that there will be a substantial  21 per cent increase in oil production to 2 million barrels per day.

    “And the benefit of that is immediate. It allows funding across the board, social services, infrastructure, business support, and agriculture.”

    “And the commitment of Mr. President is in the immediate time to bring down food prices. And that’s why there are initiatives in addition to supporting farmers to produce.

    “And what he’s saying in the meantime is that we need to give ourselves this golden opportunity to take Nigeria forward. We need to be patient with each other.

    “We need to listen to each other  as he is listening to Nigerians and showing  example to lead us to a better future.”

    Idris highlights Tinubu’s achievements

    Idris highlighted the achievements of the administration, including the N70,000 minimum wage for workers and local government autonomy,  stressing that President Tinubu has not disappointed Nigerians.

    He said the government has halted public suffering by dispatching trucks of rice to states to be sold at N40,000 per bag against the prevailing market price of N80,000.

    Idris said: “After one year in office, President Bola Tinubu has performed creditably in laying the foundation for a Nigeria that would be economically viable, sufficient, and secure, so much that the dispensing of energy to organise a ‘national protest’ by some Nigerians, would be better put towards looking into the several opportunities available to Nigerians by the Tinubu Administration.

    “A pushback to current policies of the government in the guise of protests only indicates the inability of the organisers to come to terms with the realistic conditions necessary for growth and development; and in the case of Nigeria, a retooling of our economic system, provision of grand-scale infrastructure, investment in health, agriculture, human capacity through the student loans, among several others.”

    Bagudu cautions against blame game

    Bagudu said the president took the tough path because he believes that “sentiments will not solve this problem. Blame games will not solve this problem.”

    He added: “Those solutions involve choices that are both pleasant and tough, but needed to be taken. And responsible leadership sometimes necessitates a leader to make tough choices.

    “As most of you can imagine, there’s nothing that a politician loves other than to be clapped for or applauded.

    “But a responsible leader has to make tough choices for the future.

    “So, that’s why, in delivering on those renewed agenda priorities, including the restoration of macroeconomic reforms, we are instructed that we should ensure plan-based governance and budgeting to be equitably involved within our constitutional federalism.

    “Not surprisingly, our budget reflects our priorities and innovation.  We have increased funding for security.

    “We have increased funding for infrastructure, human capital development, education, health, and social transport to support the vulnerable, as well as innovation and industrialisation.

    “We have brought initiatives that we believe are transformative, that can help us generate high levels of growth based on choices that we have seen other countries make.”

    Alake: make sacrifice for prosperity

    Alake urged Nigerians to see the current pains as a sacrifice for a prosperous future, noting that developed countries went through the same path in their journey to greatness.

    He warned that the more people run from the reality staring the country in the face, the more they postpone the doomsday.

    He recalled how President Tinubu as governor of Lagos State totally transformed the finances of the state, which took the internally generated revenue from N600m to the billions that the government rakes in today.

    He pleaded for patience to enable the policies of this government germinate.

    Ebonyi won’t join, say Nwifuru, Ayim

    Nwifuru and Anyim said Ebonyi would not join the protest.

    They spoke in Abakaliki, the state capital, during the Ebonyi Youth and Stakeholders Interactive Meeting on the planned protest.

    Umahi, who also attended the parley, said the people of the state will not ignorantly participate in the action.

    He said: “The governor’s speech and intelligence reports from security agencies suggest that no one is planning any protest in the state.

    “President Bola Tinubu deserves our support because he has taken critical decisions to reset the country, although most of the challenges did not emanate from his administration.

    “Nigerians are experiencing some hard conditions presently but we must all realised that such is a global problem.”

    Tinubu’s achievements in Niger Delta’ll discourage protests, says Momoh

    Minister of Niger Delta Development, Abubakar Momoh, stated that President Tinubu’s achievements in the Niger Delta region will discourage people from joining the nationwide protests.

    Momoh, who spoke to State House Correspondents in Abuja, praised President Tinubu’s commitment to the region’s development, citing numerous projects executed within the past year, surpassing previous administrations’ efforts.

    He expressed surprise that many Nigerians, especially youths, are unaware of the government’s programmes aimed at alleviating their suffering.

    The Minister highlighted the commissioning of projects in the Niger Delta area, showcasing the administration’s progress and dedication to the region’s development.

    Momoh believes that the President’s efforts will make it unnecessary for Niger Delta residents to protest against bad governance, emphasising the significant impact of the projects on the region.

    He, however, said that there is nobody in the country, including the President, who would say that protest is a sin, but the consequences of the actions may not be good for economic development.

    I never approved Eagle Square for protest, says Wike

    The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, clarified that he did not approve the use of Eagle Square for any event.

    Wike said this while responding to questions from reporters after inspecting an ongoing road project connecting two communities in Abaji.

    He said: “We don’t want to take anything for granted; we want to make sure that security is tight and intact.

    “I never approved the use of Eagle Square for anybody, which likely informed the security measures to ensure all public areas are well protected. We will not allow hoodlums to take advantage and begin to vandalize our infrastructure.”

    It’s the right of citizens to protest, says Yusuf

    Kano state Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf said it was the constitutional right of Nigerians to conduct peaceful protests in the state.

    The governor appealed to the organisers and participants to ensure that the protest remains peaceful devoid of violence or destruction of property.

    He spoke at the Government House, Kano, during his meeting with traditional rulers and the business community, with reinstated Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II in attendance.

    While lamenting the hardship being experienced by Nigerians, Yusuf told the protest planners to come to Government House and submit their demands, promising to ensure a safe environment for all.

    He also appealed to organisers to shun all forms of provocation during the protest.

    “By doing so, we can guarantee a safe and successful protest that conveys the message without causing harm to anyone or anything. Let’s work together to exercise our rights responsibly,” he said.

    Speaking further, the governor assured the public he would remain at Government House to receive the protesters and personally convey their message to President Tinubu.

    “I am willing to listen to the concerns of our citizens and work towards finding solutions.

    “Let us work together to exercise our rights responsibly and maintain a peaceful and harmonious society.”

    Fubara alleges anarchy plot in Rivers

    Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, declared that there is credible intelligence that some mercenaries and thugs have been hired from outside, in the guise of protest, to destroy valuable infrastructures in the state.

    The governor said the plot was despite the resolve of Rivers residents not to participate in the planned 10-day  nationwide protest.

    Fubara spoke when he addressed representatives of Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), stakeholders of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), Rivers State ethnic and youth groups, and Port Harcourt Motor Spare Parts Dealers Union, Ikoku Branch, among others at the Banquet Hall of Government House in Port Harcourt.

    The governor in a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary (CPS) Nelson Chukwudi, insisted that several public and clandestine activities of the self-styled detractors over the last months were clear indications that Rivers had unrepentant enemies, who would do everything possible within their means to destabilise the state.

  • IG, First Lady, Adegboruwa warn against protest hijack

    IG, First Lady, Adegboruwa warn against protest hijack

    Inspector-General of Police, (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun yesterday advised police officers to be on the alert to prevent the hijack of the protest by hoodlums.

     He  gave the advice while addressing a virtual conference with senior officers across the country.

    According to a statement issued by the Force Public Relations Officer Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the “IGP emphasised the importance of maintaining a high level of alertness and professionalism within the force.’’

     Egbetokun told them that the safety and security of the nation depended on their vigilance, gallantry, and readiness. ‘’

     “The IGP also emphasised that while peaceful demonstrations are a democratic right, the police must be vigilant to prevent any group from hijacking such events to incite violence,” the statement added.

     The IGP, according to Adejobi, ‘’warned against unplanned protests and unnecessary street processions, which can disrupt public order and safety.’’

    He  reiterated that confined protests  were  ‘’best in this situation to prevent destruction of public infrastructures and other properties.”

    The police boss also cautioned against the spread of fake news via various media platforms’’ and charged the  ‘’officers to put in necessary emplacements to manage’’ the trend.

    First Lady, Akpabio urge caution

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu and Senate President Godswill Akpabio have appealed to organisers of the protest to reconsider their plan.

    Mrs. Tinubu and Akpabio said the planners should first think of the protest’s potential harm to vulnerable Nigerians, small businesses, and Nigeria.

    They spoke in Abuja yesterday.

    Mrs Tinubu told reporters meeting with wives of state governors and Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) coordinators, that youths needed to engage themselves creatively by seizing the numerous opportunities available in the country.

    She  emphasised government’s efforts to revitalise the economy and restore Nigeria’s international reputation.

    Mrs Tinubu spoke with reporters after meeting with wives of state governors and Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) coordinators in Abuja.

    She said: “Lagos has not recovered from #EndSARS protests and it saddens our hearts and what people don’t realise is that when we’re drumming for things like that, we don’t know the backlash and what will happen after.

    “All those things are very distracting and I will appeal to them to be patient, we didn’t come here playing, we came here to work because, one, I know we’ll leave this place one day and I want to go into a Nigeria that will not be a burden to me. I’ll be much older and I want to make sure that I take my rest in a very conducive and nice atmosphere and that’s what we’re doing.

    “If they’re trying to be destructive, it’s left between them and the law, but I pray that they would reconsider and then don’t make life difficult for those who are still having quite a challenging life. ‘’That’s why we’re putting money into the hands of petty traders, giving them a grant of N50,000, it’s not a loan, just to help small businesses.

    “We’ve done that in the past and I saw how well it went. They shouldn’t deprive all those people that depend on their daily living and then try to obstruct that. So I appeal to them and I hope they see reasons.

    “This government has been working day and night to make sure that this country is put back on its feet. The respect we have now as Nigerians in the international community is higher than what we’ve had in the past.

    ‘’Our  youths should try to engage themselves, be creative, and do more.’’

    During the meeting with the wives of state governors and RHI coordinators, Mrs. Tinubu provided updates on various sectors where RHI is making significant strides through collaborations.

    Also, Akpabio appealed to youths to give     President Bola Ahmed Tinubu more time for his policies to yield results.

     Akpabio, who also dismissed insinuations that some Senators secretly left the country ahead of the said one year was too short for the President’s economic and social policies to take root.

     He said that 75 Senators attended yesterday’s plenary despite the speculations.

     His words: “This protest is slated for the 1st of August, 2024 and I kindly urge you that one year is not long enough for the policies being implemented by the current administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to yield the desired results.

    “The Senate urges the protesters to give the government more time to address their demands, considering the measures being put in place to ameliorate the situation in the country.’’

    Also, House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abass said it was necessary for youths to understand that President Tinubu was  committed to transforming Nigeria. 

    Abass, at a town hall meeting with youth groups and organisations that the President had demonstrated his commitment through significant interventions.

    He assured that the government was acutely aware of the issues raised by the youth and has been actively working on multiple fronts to address them.

    The speaker said: “It is important to be rebels with a cause rather than anarchists. You are responsible for proving your critics wrong by demonstrating a commitment to constructive engagement.

      ‘’We must work together on a sustained, step-by-step basis to address our challenges and achieve the Nigeria we all aspire to see.

    “I urge our youth to actively participate in the democratic process, work through the National Assembly, and push for reforms.’’

    •Protest organisers unveil demands

    Some organisers of the protest unveiled their demands in fliers posted on social media handles yesterday.

    The demands are: 

     *an end to anti-people policies, overtaxing, and electoral fraud, which according to them,  have caused widespread suffering and frustration;

    • state of emergency on inflation;

    •reversal of   fuel price hike to below N300 per litre, the restoration of affordable electricity tariffs, and  reduction of import duties to their previous rates;

    •reversal of the hike in tertiary education fees,

    •transparency and accountability in governance, including  public disclosure;

     *reduction of public officials’ salaries and allowances;

    •electoral reforms, including transition to a unicameral legislature, autonomy of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), electronic transmission of live electoral results as well as the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

    They suggested that the House of Representatives be retained to make laws on a part-time basis.

    •  “As far as they are concerned the government has no option but to reinstate a corruption-free subsidy regime to reduce hunger, starvation, and poverty,’’ one of their posters read;

    • judicial reform  to ensure swift and fair justice and  reopening of the nation’s borders;

    •  provision of an emergency fund to support SMEs as well as a mandate for all tiers of government and their agencies to patronise made-in-Nigeria goods.

    •         a law making it compulsory for children of public office holders to attend public schools in the country.

    • transition to a unicameral legislature  

    •Scrapping of the 1999 Constitution and replacing  it with a people-made constitution through a Sovereign National Conference, followed by a national referendum,

    • probe past and present Nigerian leaders ;

    •restructuring of  Nigeria to accommodate its diversity, resource control, decentralisation, and regional development.

    •reform  of security agencies in order to stem human rights violations and enhance citizens’ physical security; and

    •introduction of diaspora voting to allow Nigerians abroad to vote.

    Groups behind the protest are the Take It Back Movement, led by an activist,    Omoyele Sowore,  Concerned Nigerians, Nigerians Against Hunger, Initiative for Change, Take it Back Movement and Revolution Now.

    Others are Human Rights Co-Advocacy Group, Nigerians Against Corruption Initiative, Citizens for Change Advocacy Initiative, Timely Intervention, Active Citizens Group, Students for Change, We Coalition, Total Intervention, Refurbished Nigeria, Tomorrow Today, Our Future in Our Own Hands Initiative, Youths Against Tyranny, and Call a Spade a Spade Movement.

    Adegboruwa: be orderly

    Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Ebun-Olu Adegboruwa urged protesters to abhor violence.

    “Even our forefathers in their graveyards have heard your voices loud and clear.

    “The way the government has been running helter-skelter since the announcement of the protests shows the moral victory of your campaigns and your struggles…

    “I appeal that the protests be orderly and peaceful and conducted in the locations that you have already sent to the police.

    “Also, let the days of the protests be reduced to one day or the maximum three days and thereafter be suspended.

    “Let your demands be made known to the government and then give time to address them.”

    He urged President Tinubu to address the issues.

    “The twin policies of oil subsidy removal and currency devaluation have worked to cripple the economy and throw Nigeria into its worst economic crisis.

    “They should be reversed immediately,” Adegboruwa said.

    The SAN said the cries of the youths have not been in vain.

    “Since the announcement of the protests, the administration of President Tinubu has become unduly jittery, pandering to primordial ethnic and religious sentiments, to save face.

    “No one can deny the fact of hunger, occasioned by galloping food inflation, in which we now buy a tuber of yam for N10,000, with the other staple foods such as garri, rice, egg, bread, beans now out of reach of the common people,” he said.

    Lagos  task force in  fitness walk

    To show its readiness for emergencies across Lagos State, the Rapid Response Squad (RRS), led by Commander Shola Jejeloye and the Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit (Taskforce), headed by Chairman CSP Adetayo Akerele, yesterday conducted a joint visibility patrol and fitness walk.

    The operation, which covered key areas including Ikeja, Old Toll Gate, Oshodi, Ojota, Iyana Oworo, Third Mainland Bridge, Victoria Island, Ikoyi, Lekki, Lagos Island, and Apongbon, was aimed at reinforcing the presence of law enforcement agencies and promoting physical fitness among personnel.

    CSP Jejeloye emphasised the importance of maintaining high visibility in strategic locations to deter criminal activities and ensure swift responses to emergencies.

    “Our visibility patrol is essential in reassuring the public of our readiness to tackle any situation that arises,” he stated.

    CSP Akerele said: “This initiative not only serves to enhance security across Lagos but also promotes the physical well-being of our officers, which is crucial for their efficiency in the field “.

     Ladipo Auto Market will open

    LADIPO Auto International Market, Mushin, will open for business as it will not participate in the planned protest, its leadership has said.

    Its President-General, Prince Africanus Ogudoro, said the resolution was that no trader should take part in the protest. He assured them of maximum security should they come to work.

    Ogudoro warned them of the consequences of joining protesters, saying it could make them partisan and open their businesses to attacks by hoodlums who might use the opportunity to invade the place to steal and destroy.

    ‘Show of force’ in Osun

     Security operatives led by the Nigerian Army, police, Department of State Service(DSS), Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps(NSCDC), and others, yesterday embarked on a show of force in Osun State.

    This is just as the Osun State Command of NSCDC deployed 2,050 operatives across the state to protect public assets and properties.

    On Wednesday, a convoy of security operatives numbering about 15 patrol vans moved around the Osogbo capital of Osun State.

    The operatives’ vans move from West bypass, Stadium, Kola Balogun, Test Ground to Oke-Baale through to Ilesa Garage to Ayepe, Oja-Oba, Isale-Osun, Olaiya, Old Garage, Fagbewesa and Igbonna.

    The Osun State Police Public Relations Officer, Yemisi Opalola said: “The team is on a show of strength across the state capital to serve as a warning to unscrupulous elements who may want to infiltrate tomorrow’s protest to hijack it.”

    Heavy security presence in Plateau .

    From Kolade Adeyemi, Jos.

    There was a heavy security presence in  Jos, the Plateau State capital yesterday ahead of today’s protest.

    A Joint patrol by security operatives was visible across major areas, with armored personnel carriers and Hilux vans carrying personnel, as they patrolled major streets in a  Show of force.

    Despite the heavy security presence, the city remains calm, with residents going about their daily activities without any hindrance.

      Commissioner of Police, Emmanuel Adesina has warned against violent protests. He vowed to clamp down on violent protesters.

    Kaduna Police ‘ready’ 

    Security agencies in Kaduna State yesterday embarked on a ‘Confidence Building Show of Force Operation’ .

    The command spokesperson, ASP Mansir Hassan, told reporters that the show of force was to ensure the safety and security of the state.

    He said:  “This operation is designed to serve as a clear warning to those who may seek to use the upcoming protest to destabilize the state.

    ” It also aims to showcase the capabilities and readiness of our security agencies to maintain peace and order.

    “The operation saw the active participation of several high-ranking officers, including the Commissioner of Police Kaduna State Command.

    ”Others were the Garrison Commander 1 Division Kaduna, the Nigerian Air Force 453 Base Service Group Kaduna, the Commander of Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Commander of Kaduna state Vigilante Service among  others.”

    Hassan explained that the primary objective of the show of force was to deter individuals with malicious intent from engaging in any form of violence during the upcoming protest.

    He said, “Effective deployment of 25,000  security agencies has been made in strategic flash points to ensure strict compliance to public order.

    Governor Eno shares palliatives

    Communities in Akwa Ibom State have distanced themselves from the planned protest.

    They expressed their disapproval during the distribution of 48,000 bags of rice palliatives, and 4,800 bags of garri, to the 2,272 villages in the states’ 10 federal constituencies.

    The community leaders said Governor Umo Eno’s efforts have already made a substantial difference, and there was no need for further protest.

    Middle Belt youths pull out

    The North Central Youth Council (NCYC), an umbrella body representing the interests of over 29.5 million indigenous youths within the North Central, yesterday pulled out of the protest.

    National President of the Council, Comrade Sunday Asuku, said the current economic challenges confronting Nigeria were caused by cabals with ‘Doctorate’ degrees in crisis entrepreneurship, who derive joy and make their wealth by inciting crisis.

    Asuku however expressed confidence that better days lie ahead for Nigeria as President Bola Tinubu has taken the bullets by removing fuel subsidy, thereby blocking the oil cabals from sharing Nigeria’s fortune as usual.

    Edo APC holds solidarity rallies

    The All Progressives Congress (APC) Edo State will from today hold solidarity rallies at the state secretariat in 18 local government areas to support the administration of President Tinubu.

    Chairman Jarret Tenebe, yesterday evening, said the rallies would be peaceful and different from the nationwide protest.

    ‘Shun protest, tackle hardship constructively’

    The Yoruba Obas Forum (YOF) urged their subjects to shun the protest and tackle the current hardship constructively.

    In a joint statement by the National President, the Molokun of Atijere, Oba Samuel Olusola Adeoye; Deputy National President and the Elerinmo of Erinmo Oba Michael Ajayi; spokesperson and Alayandelu of Odo-Alayandelu, Oba Asunmo Aderibigbe, the monarchs urged Nigerians to embrace dialogue over any action that could unsettle the country.

    Diri, Sylva clash

    Bayelsa State Governor Douye Diri and Minister of State for Petroleum Resources Timipre Sylva are at logger heads over comments about the protest.

    Diri alleged that Sylva was supporting the planned protest, but the former governor described the allegation as ‘shocking, insensitive and divisive’.

    The governor also claimed that Sylva attempted to exonerate himself from a plot to cause mayhem in the state during the proposed protest.

    According to him, only those who did not know Sylva would believe his chameleonic attempt at exoneration.

    Read Also: IGP urges officers to be at alert for protest hijack

    But Sylva, in a statement he personally signed, said: “Seeing statements credited to Governor Douye Diri at his ‘security Council’ meeting, I shudder in disbelief. How could a Governor, instead of joining hands with me in my efforts to prevent the protest, be accusing me falsely?

    “And let’s say the truth, if anyone were to protest against bad governance in Bayelsa State, it would not be against President Tinubu but against Governor Diri. In spite of that, I believe that protests are mostly counter-productive. And I will never encourage them…”

     Armed  protesters will be treated   as criminals, says   NSCDC

     The  Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in  Plateau State says it will treat anyone wielding a weapon as a criminal.

    NSCDC Commandant in the state, Mr Alexander Barunde, stated this while addressing officers and men of the command on Wednesday in Jos.

    Barunde, who expressed the rights of citizens to protest against government policies, however, called on the organisers to not to give room for mischief makers to unleash anarchy on the society.

    He warned that anyone caught hiding under the protest to loot or destroy critical national and private assets would not be spared.

    ”I’m calling on the organisers of the planned protest not to create a restive situation or give room for mischief makers to unleash anarchy on the society.

    ”It must be violence-free and the protesters must eschew every negative tendency to create anarchy; there is room for dialogue with government over every concern.

    ”Any protester wielding a weapon of any kind will be treated as a criminal element with a different motive; such a person will be arrested and decisively dealt with following the law.

    ”Every law-abiding and patriotic citizen of Plateau should have the interest of the state in dealing with the protest and the uncertainties associated with it,” he said.

    Barunde, however, charged officers and men of the corps to respect the rule of law, adhere to ethical standards, and observe human dignity while engaging the protesters. 

    In Cross River State, the NSCDC  Command, said it deployed 860 personnel to ensure the safety of lives and property during the protest.

    Spokesman of the command, John Eremi, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Calabar yesterday that the personnel to be deployed in the state would be both plain-clothed and uniformed.

    Eremi said that the command would not leave anything to chance to ensure a peaceful protest.

    He said that the NSCDC commandant in the state would meet with area commanders on a strategy to be adopted on Wednesday.

     The Kaduna State Command said it deployed  2,000 personnel.

    The Commandant of the Corps,  Lucy Fakoya, made this known while addressing officers and men of the command in Kaduna yesterday.

     Middle Belt youths pull out

    The North Central Youth Council (NCYC), an umbrella body representing the interests of over 29.5 million indigenous youths within the North Central, yesterday pulled out of the protest.

    National President of the Council, Comrade Sunday Asuku, said the current economic challenges confronting Nigeria were caused by cabals with ‘Doctorate’ degrees in crisis entrepreneurship, who derive joy and make their wealth by inciting crisis.

    Asuku however expressed confidence that better days lie ahead for Nigeria as President Bola Tinubu has taken the bullets by removing fuel subsidy, thereby blocking the oil cabals from sharing Nigeria’s fortune as usual.