President Bola Tinubu has reassured Nigerians of his commitment to addressing their concerns amidst the ongoing nationwide protests against economic hardship. In a national broadcast on Sunday, Tinubu acknowledged the pain and frustration driving the protests, particularly among the 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,” Tinubu stated. He emphasized the need to avoid violence and destruction, urging unity in building a future where every Nigerian can live with dignity and prosperity.
Tinubu highlighted the collective responsibility in creating a brighter future and assured that his administration is focused on stabilizing the economy to benefit all Nigerians. “A lot of work has gone into stabilising our economy and I must stay focused on ensuring that the benefits reach every single Nigerian as promised. My administration is working very hard to improve and expand our national infrastructure and create more opportunities for our young people,” he said.
The president called on protesters and organizers to suspend further protests and engage in dialogue. He reiterated his openness to dialogue at every opportunity and emphasized the need for unity across all divides to reshape Nigeria’s destiny.
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“To those who have taken undue advantage of this situation to threaten any section of this country, be warned: The law will catch up with you. There is no place for ethnic bigotry or such threats in the Nigeria we seek to build,” Tinubu warned. He underscored the importance of respecting and protecting the constitutional rights of every Nigerian and urged law enforcement agencies to protect lives and property responsibly.
Tinubu expressed his vision for a just and prosperous Nigeria where peace, freedom, and meaningful livelihood are attainable through democratic governance. He decried the destruction and looting that marred the protests in some states, including Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna, and extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives.
“I am especially pained by the loss of lives in Borno, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna and other states, the destruction of public facilities in some states, and the wanton looting of supermarkets and shops,” he said. He condemned the violence, noting that it contradicted the promise of peaceful protests made by organizers.
The president emphasized the need to stop further bloodshed, violence, and destruction. “The destruction of properties sets us back as a nation, as scarce resources will be again used to restore them. I commiserate with the families and relations of those who have died in the protests. We must stop further bloodshed, violence and destruction,” Tinubu said.
He affirmed his commitment to ensuring public order and protecting the lives and property of every citizen, stating that his government would not allow a few individuals with a political agenda to tear the nation apart.
