Assurances have been given by the Federal Government that the issues leading to the planned nationwide protest will be addressed to promote peace and stability in the nation.
Various groups and individuals have been organizing for a nationwide demonstration set for August 1 in response to the economic challenges in the country.
In response to the planned protest, a closed-door meeting was convened on Wednesday by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, with ministers.
Following the meeting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasized that no one among them would rest until the issues are resolved.
He stated, “Discussions have revolved around matters of national interest as we all strive towards a better Nigeria. We are optimistic that Nigeria will regain its greatness.
“The planned protests are a domestic affair. All concerns will be addressed to ensure the peace and stability of the nation. This is a family matter. Those advocating for protests are Nigerians, our brothers, our sisters, and all of us, including ministers and the President, are also Nigerians. Hence, this is an issue within the Nigerian family, and we are diligently looking into it with the hope that peace will prevail in the end.”
Idris revealed that the government has been actively engaging with stakeholders and other organizers of the planned nationwide protest.
He added, “This situation is not unique. Engagement has been ongoing. The President has held several meetings with all major stakeholders. I, too, have been in discussions with stakeholders, alongside other government officials engaging with key stakeholders.”
Responding to statements from prominent Nigerians such as constitutional lawyer and human rights activist Femi Falana, SAN, who insist on the necessity of the protests, Idris emphasized that in a democracy, everyone has the right to their opinion.
“He (Falana) is an individual. This is a democracy, and everyone is entitled to their opinion. The protesters are also Nigerians, and this is a democratic setting. I reiterate that we are all Nigerians and we are all acting in the interest of Nigeria. However, it is worth noting that yesterday, the President stated that there is no need for any protests, let us remain calm.
“Much is unfolding, Nigeria is advancing and we trust that any decision made by the government will be in the best interest of Nigeria. We do not see the necessity for any protests; we are appealing for calm and advocating for a peaceful resolution or approach to any issue.
“Should you have any grievances to express, you have the freedom to do so, but the government maintains that we are all Nigerians. We need to remain calm, exercise patience, and, importantly, let peace prevail. The President is tirelessly working, his ministers are engaged, everyone is contributing, and we are all hands-on-deck.”
Idris conveyed the President’s message to all citizens to stay calm and grant him additional time.
He expressed, “As I mentioned previously, everyone is attentive; we are all listening. The President is attentive and he has a message for every Nigerian: they should stay calm and kindly give him more time. Every request made, every plea presented will be addressed,” Idris affirmed.