In the wake of nationwide pro-government demonstrations, the Presidency has reaffirmed that Nigerians have the constitutional right to peaceful protest.
This statement comes amid rising tensions ahead of a planned 10-day protest set to commence on August 1.
Constitutional Rights and Government Response
Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, emphasized the administration’s commitment to upholding citizens’ rights during a televised interview on Sunday.
He stated, “There is nobody within our administration that has the standing, the command, or the gravitas to tell Nigerians that they cannot peacefully protest… President Bola Tinubu has been very clear that the notion of peaceful protest is a central component of an effective function in democracy.”
This declaration coincides with reports that the Federal Government is taking measures to address the grievances of youths, including offering jobs and grants, to prevent the protest.
The Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) announced job vacancies for the first time in nearly a decade, while the Ministry of Youth Development relaunched a N110 billion youth investment fund.
Concerns Over Violence and Security Preparations
Despite assurances of peaceful demonstrations, concerns persist over potential violence.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has summoned Ebun Olu-Adegboruwa, SAN, legal adviser to the protest organizers, to a meeting at the Force Headquarters.
The meeting aims to discuss security arrangements for the demonstrations.
The Minister of Education, Prof. Tahir Mamman, has also directed universities to ensure the safety of staff, students, and property.
In a circular, Mamman urged vice-chancellors to take proactive measures, including advising students to remain on campus during the protests.
Calls for Restraint and Dialogue
Civil society organizations (CSOs) and public figures have called for calm and dialogue.
The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) urged all parties to prioritize the nation’s peace and order.
NBA President Yakubu Maikyau, SAN, stated, “This is not about protesters versus non-protesters; it is about our dear country Nigeria.”
Political Reactions and Counter-Protests
Senate President Godswill Akpabio attributed the protests to politicians who lost in the 2023 elections, suggesting they aim to gain power through destabilization.
He urged Nigerian youths not to be misled into destructive actions.
Meanwhile, the Southwest Executive Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) appealed for patience, assuring that current hardships would eventually lead to improved living conditions.
The APC forum of state chairmen announced plans for nationwide solidarity rallies in support of President Tinubu, starting from July 29 to August 11.
Controversy Over Protest Venue
The planned use of Eagle Square in Abuja for the protest has sparked controversy.
Damilare Adenola, Director of Mobilisation for the Take-It-Back Movement, argued that the public space should be accessible for the demonstration.
Despite bureaucratic delays in officially securing the venue, Adenola asserted, “This is the idea of battered Nigerian people, this is the idea of hungry Nigerian people.”
