By Fatima Saka
The President of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, has implores protesters to engage in dialogue and cease the nationwide protest, urging them to cease the bloodshed, violence, and destruction.
Tinubu made this plea during a nationwide address on Sunday in Abuja, conveying, “My fellow Nigerians, I address you today with a heavy heart and a sense of duty, cognizant of the chaos and violent demonstrations unleashed in some of our states.”
The President articulated that within the protesters were young Nigerians aspiring for a more progressive country where their dreams, aspirations, and personal goals could be realized.
According to Tinubu, “I am particularly grieved by the loss of lives in Borno, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, and other states, the vandalism of public facilities in certain regions, and the indiscriminate looting of supermarkets and stores, in contrast to the assurances of peaceful protests made by the organizers nationwide. The devastation of properties sets our nation back, as limited resources will once again be utilized for their restoration.”
“I extend my condolences to the families and loved ones of those who have perished during the protests. We must halt any further bloodshed, violence, and destruction.”
“As the President of this nation, I must ensure public order. Upholding my constitutional obligation to safeguard the lives and possessions of every citizen, our government will not passively stand by and allow a few individuals with evident political motives to disintegrate this country.”
Given the circumstances, I hereby urge protesters and organizers to suspend any additional demonstrations and pave the way for dialogue, a path I have consistently embraced at every opportunity. Nigeria necessitates the collective efforts of all individuals, irrespective of age, political affiliation, ethnicity, religion, or other divides, to collaborate in reshaping our national destiny.
“To those who have exploited this situation to threaten any segment of this country, be forewarned: The legal system will catch up with you. There is no place for ethnic prejudice or such intimidations in the Nigeria we strive to construct.
“Our democracy advances when the constitutional rights of every Nigerian are acknowledged and safeguarded. Our law enforcement agencies should persist in ensuring the complete protection of the lives and properties of innocent citizens in a responsible manner.
“My vision for our nation is that of a fair and prosperous country where each individual can relish the peace, liberty, and meaningful sustenance that only democratic governance can offer – one that is transparent, open, and accountable to the Nigerian populace.”
