The Federal Government has responded to the planned nationwide protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, scheduled for August 1, by urging Nigerians to stay patient and calm.
The government assured citizens that it is actively working to address their concerns.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, spoke after a Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja on Wednesday.
He described the planned protests as a “family matter” and expressed confidence that they would be resolved in a way that maintains national peace and stability.
Idris said, “We came together to discuss national interests. This meeting is happening at the office of the SGF, not the Council Chambers, highlighting its significance. Many ministers are here, working collectively for Nigeria’s betterment.”
He acknowledged the public’s grievances and urged for calm, stating, “Those agitating for protests are our brothers and sisters. This is a Nigerian family issue, and we are looking at it carefully, hoping peace will prevail.”
The Minister assured that the government is in continuous dialogue with protest organizers and stakeholders. “Engagement is continuous. The President and other key government officials have been meeting with stakeholders. This is the only country we have, and we believe that through ongoing engagement, Nigeria will be better for all of us,” Idris added.
Addressing calls by prominent figures, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana, for the protests to proceed, Idris highlighted Nigeria’s democratic values. “Everyone is entitled to their opinion in a democracy. However, Mr. President has called for calm, emphasizing that there is no need for protests. We are appealing for patience and peaceful resolution.”
Idris reaffirmed that the government is attentive to Nigerians’ concerns. “Mr. President and his ministers are working tirelessly. We are all listening, and the President’s message is clear: calm down and give us more time. All pleas will be addressed.”
The FEC meeting was attended by several ministers, including Nyesom Wike, Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs), Zephaniah Jisalo (Special Duties), Tahir Mamman (Education), Abubakar Bagudu (Budget and Planning), Wale Edun (Finance), Mohammed Idris (Information), Bello Matawalle (Defence), David Umahi (Works), and National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.
