President Tinubu Responds to Protests: “I Have Heard You Loud and Clear”
Calls for Suspension of Further Protests to Open Dialogue
Acknowledges the Pain and Frustration of Nigerians
Emphasizes the Need for Unity and Peace
In response to nationwide protests that have continued for 72 hours, primarily driven by youth across the country, President Bola Tinubu has addressed the nation, acknowledging the demonstrators’ grievances and calling for a peaceful resolution.
“Dear Nigerians, especially our youth, I have heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration that drive these protests, and I want to assure you that our government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens,” President Tinubu stated in a national broadcast this morning.
However, he urged that violence and destruction must not be allowed to divide the nation. “We must work together to build a brighter future, where every Nigerian can live with dignity and prosperity,” he added.
President Tinubu emphasized the importance of unity in tackling the challenges facing Nigeria, stating, “The task before us is a collective one, and I am leading the charge as your President. Significant efforts have been made to stabilize our economy, and I remain focused on ensuring that the benefits reach every single Nigerian as promised.”
He called on protesters and organizers to suspend further actions to create room for dialogue, highlighting that constructive discussions are essential for progress.
The nationwide protest, organized under the hashtag #EndBadGovernance, began on August 1 and has seen diverse groups participating with varying demands. Among the circulating demands on social media are:
- Revert petrol pump price to N100/litre
- Combat insecurity and hunger
- Close all IDP camps and resettle the campers
- Implement total electoral reform
- Conduct an independent probe into the electoral budget of N355 billion
- Immediately release ENDSARS protesters still in detention
- Implement a living wage (minimum wage of N300k)
- Provide compulsory free education from primary to secondary school
- Require children of public office holders to attend public schools in Nigeria
- Ensure government patronizes made-in-Nigeria goods
- Transition to unicameral legislation
- Conduct judicial and constitutional reviews
The President faced criticism for not addressing the aggrieved Nigerians before the protests and for waiting days into the demonstrations before speaking out. However, in his broadcast, he urged protesters to suspend further protests to pave the way for dialogue.
Speaking on the recent violence and loss of lives during the protests, President Tinubu expressed his condolences and emphasized the need for peace. “I am especially pained by the loss of lives in Borno, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna, and other states. The destruction of public facilities and the looting of supermarkets and shops set us back as a nation,” he said. He warned against the dangers of allowing a few individuals with a political agenda to cause chaos.
President Tinubu reiterated his commitment to upholding public order and protecting citizens’ lives and properties, urging law enforcement agencies to act responsibly while maintaining peace.
Highlighting the government’s recent achievements and ongoing efforts, Tinubu detailed various initiatives aimed at improving the economy and creating opportunities for young Nigerians. These include measures to stabilize the economy, promote fiscal growth, support small businesses, and enhance infrastructure development.
He also announced initiatives to reduce transportation costs, boost food production, and provide housing. “Our administration has shown its commitment to the youth by setting up the student loan scheme and the Consumer Credit Corporation to help Nigerians acquire essential products without immediate cash payments,” he noted.
In his conclusion, President Tinubu called for unity and cooperation among all Nigerians. “Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Let us choose hope over fear, unity over division, and progress over stagnation,” he urged.
He assured that security operatives would maintain peace while respecting human rights and reiterated his commitment to the safety and security of all Nigerians.
“Thank you for your attention, and may God continue to bless our great nation,” President Tinubu concluded.
