Obiageli Ezekwesili, the former Minister of Education, has called on the Nigerian government to refrain from intimidating citizens who wish to exercise their constitutional rights, particularly in the context of a forthcoming nationwide protest.
Ezekwesili emphasized the importance of safeguarding and supporting protesters by security agencies, advocating for a peaceful environment for those expressing their grievances.
She urged members of the National Assembly and various governors across the nation to seize the opportunity presented by the upcoming protests, recognizing their roles as public servants.
Reports indicate that a segment of the Nigerian populace is mobilizing for a nationwide protest scheduled from August 1 to August 10, 2024, under the banner #EndBadGovernance. Organizers have expressed their frustration regarding the rampant hunger and inflation affecting the country.
In a statement shared on her social media platform, Ezekwesili articulated her stance, titled ‘My Position on the Nationwide Protest of our Young Citizens.’ She noted, “It is evident that a significant portion of our citizens, particularly the youth, are grappling with severe economic challenges. They attribute this distress to poor governance and are calling for an end to it.”
She questioned the rationale behind contesting such a clear situation, highlighting that the rhetoric and actions from politicians and public officials are lacking in both democratic values and empathy.
Ezekwesili observed that the media indicates a growing movement among young Nigerians planning to protest, which has seemingly unsettled both federal and state governments.
She expressed hope that the Nigerian government and its allies would refrain from threatening those wishing to exercise their rights to protest.
Additionally, she urged the leadership of the National Assembly and state governors to take advantage of this moment to engage constructively with the discontented youth.
Ezekwesili proposed two key actions for the government, which are to Ensure that law enforcement agencies, including the police and civil defense corps, provide protection and support to protesters, facilitating a peaceful and orderly demonstration while learning from the lessons of the #EndSARS protests and to
Offer a credible response to the protesters, outlining a clear plan for achieving good governance in relation to the specific issues they are raising.
Ezekwesili concluded by encouraging politicians and public officials to adopt a humble approach, listening to and learning from their constituents, and wishing the protesters a successful, organized, and peaceful demonstration.
