Cautioning the 774 council chairmen nationwide, the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria has warned against supporting the ongoing Hunger Protests taking place simultaneously across the country.
Youth groups have designated August 1 to 10 for protests to raise awareness about the hardships faced by citizens.
At a press conference in Lafia on Thursday, ALGON President Aminu Mu’azu-Maifata stated that the association opts not to back the protests, citing their belief in the Federal Government’s promising plans for Nigerians under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership.
He emphasized, “As the true representatives of the 774 LGAs nationwide, ALGON urges all residents in these areas to reject protests and choose dialogue and peace.
“To all council chairmen, we acknowledge the administration of His Excellency, President Bola Tinubu, for implementing various policies and programs aimed at steering the nation towards economic advancement.
“These initiatives include offering free agricultural inputs, investment loans at low interest rates, student loans, and the recent Local Government autonomy, enhancing the ability of Local Government Councils to fulfill their constitutional duties by delivering essential services to grassroots communities.”
While urging ALGON members to be patient with the government regarding the newly approved Local Government autonomy by the Supreme Court, he assured that the President is committed to ensuring the proper functioning of the 774 LGAs across the country.
Mu’azu-Maifata elaborated that ALGON acknowledges the hardships faced by the masses but stressed that advocating protests may not bring about the desired positive outcomes, potentially endangering lives.
He said, “Let’s collaborate for a more prosperous and fairer Nigeria, where Local Government Councils are truly empowered to serve their communities. Development can only be achieved through peace.
“We must avoid a return to dark days of violence and destruction. Dialogue remains crucial for the improvement of our beloved nation,” reiterated the ALGON President.