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Tag: protest

  • Kano holds solidarity rally against planned nationwide protest

    Kano holds solidarity rally against planned nationwide protest

    Hundreds of Kano residents on Wednesday, July 31, held a peaceful solidarity rally against the planned nationwide protest.

    The rally, held at the vast premises of Meena Event Centre, was organised by the Ja’oji Organisation in support of President Bola Tinubu, for the Renewed Hope Agenda of his administration.

    Nasiru Bala Aminu, a member of the Governing Council, Federal College of Education, Patiskum, who sensitised the gathering on the dangers of protests, said there was a hidden agenda to the planned protest because there are no clear-cut organisers.

    “We totally reject it. We are not supporting any protest at this critical period of national development and cohesion.

    “While registering worries about particular policies of any government is democratic, planning to cause a crisis of any nature, under whatever name should be condemned by right-thinking citizens,” Aminu said.

    Read Also; Onyeka Onwenu’s last moment before her death

    He reminded us that the many hardships being experienced in the country did not start with the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

    “While acknowledging the hardship being faced by Nigerians, President Tinubu assured adjustments in some of his administration’s policies. As a listening leader, President Tinubu assured Nigerians that things would change for the better.

    “On behalf of all the people who gathered here, particularly our mothers and sisters, women, we are not supporting any protest.

    “I met and discussed with many women groups on this planned protest. Their message is very clear, that, they are not part of it, they don’t support it and they warned their children not to support it. They need peace in Nigeria at any cost,” he said.

    Aminu explained that some African countries, including Libya (in 2011), Somalia (1991), DR Congo (1996), and Sudan (2020), among others, are still in crisis because of similar protests that were hijacked by hoodlums and unpatriotic elements.

    While calling for patience, Aminu explained that since Nigerians made their worries known, President Tinubu has been meeting with stakeholders of the Nigerian project to chart a new course for all-inclusive national development.

    He added: “Nigeria is the only country we have. As such we must all join hands together to promote its unity and peaceful coexistence.”

  • Niger youths urged to shun planned protest

    Niger youths urged to shun planned protest

    Ambassador Nmaa Ahmed, PhD, the Director General of the Rural Access and Agricultural Marketing Project (RAAMP) in Niger state, has urged youths in the state to shun the August 1, protest.

    In a statement on Wednesday, Ahmed said the protest should not come at a time when Niger state is witnessing Agricultural and infrastructural transformation.

    However, he urged the young people to seek a constructive dialogue with the federal government, while tasking Niger youths to keep assisting and interacting positively with the state government.

    He said: “Dear youths, as you navigate the journey of life, remember that you are the heartbeat of our community and the architects of our future. Your dreams, ideas, and energy are the driving forces that will shape a brighter tomorrow for us all.

    “Embrace education, for it is the key that will unlock countless opportunities. Never underestimate the power of hard work, dedication, and perseverance.

    Read Also: Tinubu sowing seed of progress, prosperity, says Sunday Dare

    “Stand tall in the face of challenges, for they are stepping stones to greatness. Innovate, create, and collaborate, knowing that your unique talents and perspectives are invaluable. Support one another, and together, we can build a more prosperous and united Niger State.

    “It is essential to shun the nationwide protests because this is not the time for it. Niger state is witnessing transformation, in all sectors, Agriculture is being revolutionized, infrastructure are being put in place, rural roads are being constructed, education prioritized, youth are being carried along.

    “Instead of protests, young people should seek for a constructive dialogue with the federal government. While Niger youth should keep assisting and interacting positively with the administration of His Excellency, Farmer Governor Umaru Bago, to work towards solutions that will benefit us all.

    “By collaborating and communicating effectively, we can address our challenges and build the new Niger State we all envision.

    “Youth should stay focused on their goals, and never lose sight of the incredible potential they possess. The future is in your hands-make it extraordinary. Together let’s hold on to the peace we enjoy as Nigerlites,” he said.

  • Lagos residents express mixed reactions to proposed nationwide protest

    Lagos residents express mixed reactions to proposed nationwide protest

    Some Lagos State residents have expressed mixed reactions to the planned nationwide hunger protest urging the Federal Government to address the needs of the masses amid persistent food inflation.

    They disclosed this in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos.

    They also said there were no money to engage in  panic buying ahead of the protest.

    A resident at the Abule-Egba area of the state, Mrs Joy Okam, said there was no panic buying as the funds to do so were unavailable.

    “Personally, I am not panic buying because I do not even have the funds to stock up ahead of the planned protest.

    “I will still observe the atmosphere and know if I should borrow to stock between today and tomorrow. It actually costs more to stock up for me, so I do not want the protest to hold.

    “Some people want the protest to begin because of inordinate agenda. There is no point protesting, we know how it starts but nobody knows how it will end.

    “We just want the government to intervene in the plights of the common man on the street,” Okam said.

    Also speaking, Mrs Cornelia Edet, a resident at Gbagada area of the state, said described the claims of panic buying due to the protest as unfounded.

    “I went to the market to get some food items but I am not panic buying because of the protest. There is really no panic-buying from my observation so far in the market and there’s no money too.

    “The protest should hold if it will bring about the necessary changes Nigerians desire because food items are really expensive now.

    “However, if the protest will lead to death, arson and violence, it should not hold.

    “In essence, if the government can heed the calls of Nigerians, this protest is best avoided for the good of all. We do not want a repeat of the EndSARS protest of 2020,” Edet said.

    On his part, Mr John Nwabueze, a food stuff trader at Alimosho, said sales had been as usual and there had been no sort of panic buying.

    “There has been nothing unusual about our sales in the advent of the planned protest. The sales have been normal and gradually some food items have started dropping in price.

    “We sold a 50kg bag of short grain rice for about N80,000 two weeks ago but now it sells for N72,000.

    “The long grain rice also is dropping in price, a bag sold between N85,000 and N87,000 two weeks ago but now sells for N80,000.

    “There have been no panic buying at our end,” Nwabueze said.

    Also, Mrs Patricia Amanyi, a resident at Ago area of the state, said she had to stock up her home with basic necessities because of the uncertainties of the protest outcome.

    “I have gone to stock my house with the basic necessities because we do not know how the protests will turn out.

    “I personally want the protest to hold but peacefully because people are suffering. The government should heed to the calls of the people.

    Read Also: Protest: Security beefed up around MMA2 access points

    “Our hope is that the protest is not hijacked by unscrupulous people and defeat its aim,” Amanyi said.

    Mr Johnson Okoli, a trader at Abule Market Ajao Estate, pleaded for enhanced security to avoid the repeat of what happened during EndSARS protest where many shops were looted by miscreants.

    Okoli said there was the need to protect the markets, shopping malls and as well as lives and property to avoid the repeat of EndSARS experience.

    He urged the government to address the challenges in the country, stressing that the growing food inflation had remained a nightmare.

    (NAN)

  • August 1: Oyo stakeholders urge youths to shelve planned protest  

    August 1: Oyo stakeholders urge youths to shelve planned protest  

    A group of prominent Oyo State leaders comprising Kolawole Raji, Muraina Ajibola, Dapo Lam, Sunday Adepoju, and Segun Odebunmi, have made heartfelt appeal to the youths of the state to reconsider the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1 to 10.

    The political figures, met with youth leaders of the All Progressives Congress (APC), student leaders, and other critical stakeholders on Tuesday, July 30, at the party’s permanent secretariat in Oke-Ado, Ibadan.

    The meeting aimed to sensitize members of the APC on the potential ills of the planned protest and to discuss the state of the nation.

    Hon. Raji, emphasised the dangers of the planned protest and highlighted the significant achievements of President Tinubu’s government.

    He said: “We are very sympatheti​c towards the people and we are very aware that things are tough at this time, but we implore our people to give the president more time to put Nigeria back in shape.

    Read Also; Onyeka Onwenu’s last moment before her death

    “These things we complain of didn’t happen at once; it was gradual. We are confident Nigeria would be great under President Bola Tinubu.”

    He said: “Achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Government: 1. Local Government Financial Autonomy: President Tinubu’s administration has granted financial autonomy to local governments, enabling them to manage funds independently and improve governance and service delivery at the grassroots level.

    “2. Student Loan Scheme: The introduction of a comprehensive student loan scheme by the Tinubu administration provides interest-free loans to students, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder Nigerian youths from pursuing higher education.

    “3. Infrastructural Development: The administration has prioritized infrastructural development with major projects such as the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road Project, Badagry-Sokoto Expressway, many other road projects across the Country and the extensive national rail network rehabilitation. These projects will enhance connectivity, boosted economic activities, and created numerous job opportunities for the youth.

    “4. New Minimum Wage: To address the rising cost of living and improve the standard of living for Nigerian workers, the Tinubu administration has increased the national minimum wage to N70,000. This increment aims to enhance the purchasing power of workers and promote a fairer distribution of wealth.

    “5. Agricultural Development and Youth Empowerment: Initiatives such as the Youth Farm Initiative and the Agricultural Enhancement Program have empowered young farmers with training, funding, and resources, contributing to the nation’s agricultural transformation and food security.

    “6. Healthcare Improvements: The establishment of more primary healthcare centers, improvement of existing facilities, and introduction of health insurance schemes have made quality healthcare accessible and affordable for all Nigerians.

    “7. Technology and Innovation: President Tinubu’s government is fostering a conducive environment for technological innovation and entrepreneurship through initiatives like the National Innovation Fund and support for tech hubs nationwide, encouraging young innovators to develop solutions for local and global challenges.

    The leaders urge the youths of Oyo State to recognize these achievements and the genuine efforts of the current administration to improve the lives of all Nigerians.

  • Etiosa chair seeks peace, security over violent protest

    Etiosa chair seeks peace, security over violent protest

    The Chairman of Eti-Osa East Local Council Development Area (LCDA), John Campos, has urged residents to prioritise peace and security in lieu of planned protest.

    He made this known at the stakeholders meeting held at the council secretariat.

    Campos noted that the current adminstration under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is on a transformative path towards a greater, stronger, and economically-viable nation.

    “President Tinubu and his team are working tirelessly to build a better country. This vision for our country requires the collective effort and faith of every Nigerian. I implore you to keep the faith, as better days are indeed ahead of us,” he said.

    Read Also: Gunmen kill police orderly, abduct ex-Delta Commissioner

    The council boss, implored youths to engage in peaceful deliberations rather than demonstrations, warning that violence and unrest would hinder progress.

    He called upon community leaders to counsel their wards against violence, emphasizing collective responsibility for the safety and security of lives and properties.

    “We must work together to secure our community and ensure Eti-Osa East remains a beacon of peace and unity. I believe in the strength and resilience of our community, and I am confident that, with your support, we will continue to thrive,” he said.

  • Protest: Conference 57 urges agitators to reconsider approach

    Protest: Conference 57 urges agitators to reconsider approach

    Fifty-seven local council chairmen in Lagos State under the umbrella of Conference 57 have urged Lagos residents to shun the nationwide protest by some Nigerians.

    The Chairman of Conference 57, Kolade Alabi, urged the organisers of the protest to reconsider their approach, stating that it does not serve the best interest of the nation.

    Alabi, who is the Bariga Council Chairman, advocated for demonstrations based on taking to the ballot rather than protests.

    He emphasised that electoral processes offer a more constructive and legitimate means of expressing grievances and driving change.

    Alabi re-emphasised President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians, drawing reference to the latest approval of N70,000 minimum wage for workers and the implementation of financial autonomy for local governments.

    He further praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s efforts to ensure that various palliatives reach the most vulnerable people in every neighbourhood.

    Read Also: Drama as Senate rejects Ministry’s memoranda on Ajaokuta Steel

    The council chairmen collectively argued that expressing grievances through protests might not yield the desired results. Instead, they advocated for utilising electoral processes to voice discontent and influence governance.

    He said: “We are here to appeal to all Lagosians not to allow themselves to be used for any planned protest. All the local governments in Lagos State will not tolerate any form of protest. We appeal to the organisers of the planned protest to reconsider their approach.”

    Conference 57 Public Relations Officer Sesan Daini, said such protest is not needed at this time.

    Daini said: “Nigerians have voted for a man, who in less than two years is doing all his best to put everything in the right place. Going out to protest at this stage will not support the government, and the electoral value of our people.

    “Democratically, there is a way we can express our grievances, we can protest by voting for the people that we think are good. But I’m 100 per cent sure that by the end of the second or third year of this administration, people will not have any reason to protest again, because you would have seen the dividends of democracy and fulfillment of electoral promises.”

    Chairman of Ibeju Lekki Local Government, Sesan Olowa, described Tinubu’s government as friendly.

    “It’s a government that is ready to address the yearnings of Nigerians. Rome was not built in a day; you do not expect the government to do everything within a year. Nigerians should give him more time and I’m very optimistic he would do well,” he said.

  • ‘Protest can’t bring meaningful change’

    ‘Protest can’t bring meaningful change’

    The Chairman of Iba Local ouncil Development Area (LCDA) Jubril Yisa, has said that meaningful development cannot be achieved through violent protest.

    Yisa said this during Stakeholders’ Meeting at the council secretariat.

    He acknowledged the youth’s courage and passion for wanting a good governance and better nation.

    He, however, stated that it is imperative that the youth should approach the situation with a spirit of dialogue and mutual understanding.

    He said he understands and shares the frustration many are feeling regarding the current state of the economy, but firmly believe that the path to meaningful change cannot be achieved through protest.

    According to him, protest can lead to violence.

    Read Also: Drama as Senate rejects Ministry’s memoranda on Ajaokuta Steel

    He urged youths to channel their energies into a process that would foster dialogue, inclusivity and progress. A member of Lagos State Community Policing Committee, Lukman Aminu, who defined government as “our property” urged

    Nigerians not to allow anyone destroy it.

    The District Officer of Civil Defense, D O

    Bodede, advised parents to caution their children from destroying public infrastructure.

    Other stakeholders who spoke at the event include Oniba of Iba, Oba Sulaimon Adeshina, religious leaders, the police and students’ leader among others.

  • Lagos lawmaker urges youth to shun protest, calls for dialogue

    Lagos lawmaker urges youth to shun protest, calls for dialogue

    The lawmaker representing Eti-Osa Constituency 2 in Lagos, Gbolahan Yishawu, has urged youths to shun the the planned August 1, protest, adding that peaceful dialogue is the way to go.

    He acknowledged the challenges faced by the country but assured the youth that  President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his team  are working diligently to address these issues.

    Yishawu admonished the youths to engage in dialogue with the government rather than resorting to protests.

    He spoke at a programme to educate young people on the harmful effects of drug abuse.

    Yishawu invited officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to counsel youths about the dangers of drug abuse.

    He emphasized the need for youths to reject drugs.

    “We all know what drugs do to people and the prevalence of drugs from statistics worldwide.

    ” We have officials from NDLEA to provide the right advocacy and explain the implications of drug use. 

    The youth are the strength of the nation, and we must ensure they understand the dangers of drug abuse”, he said. 

     Olasupo Jubril, the Majority Leader of the Lagos State Youth Parliament, expressed his disapproval of the protest and encouraged other youths to maintain decorum and engage in dialogue with the government. 

    Read Also: Protest: CP orders massive deployment of personnel in Delta

    Other youths echoed similar sentiments, highlighting the negative experiences and damage caused by the previous protest as reasons to avoid participating in the planned demonstration.

    Joshua Izeybigie, an official of the NDLEA representing the Ajah area command, highlighted the lethal effects of drug abuse, stating the adverse effects of drugs on youths.

     “Drug abuse affects everything about a person, including their education, family life, and overall well-being. Women who use drugs cannot take care of their homes properly. Drug abuse is damaging to both the youth and society”, he said. 

    The sensitization event organized by  Yishawu serves as a crucial step in raising awareness about the detrimental effects of drug abuse among youth and promoting a peaceful approach to addressing societal concerns.

  • Protest: CP orders massive deployment of personnel in Delta

    Protest: CP orders massive deployment of personnel in Delta

    The police command in Delta has deployed police personnel across the state ahead of the planned nationwide protest scheduled for Aug. 1.

    In a statement on Tuesday in Asaba, the command’s Spokesman, SP Bright Edafe, said the deployment was on the order of the Commissioner of Police, Mr Olufemi Abaniwonda.

    Edafe said that undercover detectives had also being deployed to identify those who might take advantage of the protest to be violent.

    “In view of the planned nationwide protest scheduled for Aug.1 to Aug.10, Abaniwonda has ordered a massive deployment of personnel in the state.

    “The order is in compliance with the directive of the Inspector General of Police, (IGP), Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun.

    ” IGP also ordered that all organisers of the protest should give details of their activities to their respective state police commands for security arrangement,” Edafe said.

    Read Also: Protests: NSCDC deploys 5,000 personnel to maintain peace in FCT

    The command spokesperson listed the required details to include the proposed protest assembling point and routes and expected duration of the protest.

    According to him, the organisers are also to submit the names and contact details of protest leaders and organisers, as well as measures to prevent hijack by criminal elements.

    Edafe urged those embarking on the protest to cooperate with the command to ensure that the proposed protest was carried out peacefully without being hijacked.

    (NAN)

  • Cleric offers practical solution to avert nationwide protest

    Cleric offers practical solution to avert nationwide protest

    The General Superintendent of Holy Spirit Mission, also known as the Happy Family Church, Charles Ighele, has offered some practical suggestions to the federal government to avert the looming nationwide protest.

    Reacting to the nationwide protest scheduled to commence on August 1, Ighele urged the government to reduce the current pump price of premium motor spirit (fuel).

    “Before he was sworn in as president, I cautioned in an interview I granted in the newspaper he owns about falling into the trap of fuel subsidy removal.

    “Something Buhari was careful or scared to do. The president went ahead to make the same error Jonathan made when he increased the price of petrol early in his presidency,” Ighele stated.

    He stated that pump price reduction was the magic wand used by former President Goodluck Jonathan to quell protest during his tenure. 

    “This led to protests which seriously affected the popularity of Jonathan within a few months after he was elected.

    “What Jonathan did was to reduce the pump price with the amount with which he increased it. That step stopped the protests. I will advise the president to effect the reduction of the pump price of petrol to a bearable limit,” Ighele stated.

    He added that it would be a good idea if the president addresses the nation before the scheduled date of the protest.

    He noted that the happenings in the country shows that the government is getting richer while the generality of the people are getting poorer. 

    According to Ighele, great leaders are made during tough times. 

    Read Also: Protest: Women affairs minister, Asari Dokubo organise peace rally in Abuja

    He, however, urged the government to explore other sources of revenue generation aside from fuel subsidy removal, increase taxes, among others.

    He added that the president should also be careful to know that revenue generating systems that worked in mostly urban Lagos might not work in other places; hence should not be implemented hook line and sinker in other parts of Nigeria.

    “With my knowledge of political development in many nations of the world, governments that accept to reduce its share of the wealth of the nation and allow the people’s welfare to be of greater importance survived more than those hawkish governments that insisted on having the wealth and to use the wealth to provide palliative and other social services for the people,” Ighele stated.