In response to rising tensions and fears of nationwide protests by Nigerian youth starting August 1, President Bola Tinubu has convened an urgent meeting with governors from the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum, Governor Hope Uzodimma, led his fellow governors in a closed-door session at the State House in Abuja.
Notable attendees included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Inspector General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Saad Abubakar, and the Ooni of Ife, Enitan Ogunwusi, among others.
This meeting was prompted by threats from citizens, particularly the youth, who are planning to protest against the economic challenges and hunger plaguing the nation.
Dubbed ‘EndBadGovernance,’ the anticipated protest has garnered significant public support, reflecting widespread dissatisfaction with the economic policies of Tinubu’s administration.
In light of the looming demonstrations, President Tinubu has been making urgent appeals to the organizers, urging them to reconsider their plans.
Adding his voice to the appeal, the Oba of Benin, Oba Ewuare II, has urged the youth to postpone the planned nationwide #EndBadGovt protest. He encouraged patience, asking citizens to allow the government time to implement its policies aimed at tackling hunger and economic distress.
A public announcement from the palace conveyed the message: “This statement is issued on the authority of His Royal Majesty, Omo N’Oba N’Edo, Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, CFR, Oba of Benin.
Following an emergency meeting of the National Executive Committee of the National Council of Traditional Rulers of Nigeria (NCTRN) held in Abuja on July 22, 2024, the Omo N’Oba appeals to the public for patience as the Federal Government works to alleviate the current hardships faced by Nigerians.”
The monarch acknowledged that while conditions may be tough now, improvement often requires enduring some difficulties first.
He urged those planning the August 1 protests to reconsider their intentions, while also calling on the Tinubu administration to bolster its efforts in executing economic and security measures.
