CurrentReport Blog In a press briefing held in Abuja on Wednesday, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, called on Nigerians to ensure that the planned August 1 hardship protest is not hijacked by bandits, criminals, or insurgents.
Akume highlighted the ongoing economic challenges faced by Nigerians, assuring that these would be alleviated as the government’s reforms start yielding positive results. He emphasized President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to democracy and the right of every citizen to engage in peaceful protests.
“The ongoing economic hardships will abate very soon, and we shall all enjoy endless prosperity,” Akume stated. He reiterated the government’s awareness of the dangers associated with protests, urging Nigerians to be vigilant and cautious.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the government of President Tinubu recognizes the right to peaceful protest, but circumspection and vigilance should be our watchwords,” 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.”
In support of Akume’s statements, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, outlined the government’s economic reforms aimed at improving the lives of Nigerians. He detailed several achievements over the past year, including the signing of the N70,000 minimum wage, local government autonomy, a student loan scheme, the Nigerian Youths Investment Fund, and direct agricultural interventions.
Additionally, the Minister of Finance, Wale Edun, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, and the Minister of Solid Minerals Development, Dele Alake, all urged Nigerians to support the bold economic reforms of the Tinubu administration, which they believe will lead to prosperity in the coming years.
As the planned protest date approaches, the government continues to emphasize the importance of maintaining peace and order, encouraging dialogue over confrontation to address the nation’s economic challenges.
