The Federal Government has urged Nigerians to postpone the planned nationwide protest against President Bola Tinubu’s administration, citing ongoing efforts to address economic hardships. Describing the situation as a “family matter,” the government appealed for more time to implement its policies.
Government’s Call for Patience
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, spoke after a Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja, convened by Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume. Idris emphasized that the government is actively working on solutions to the country’s economic challenges and called for unity and patience.
“We came together to discuss national issues. This is not happening at the Council Chambers but at the office of the SGF, with many ministers present,” Idris said. “We hope and believe Nigeria will be great again. No one is sleeping. Those agitating for protests are our brothers and sisters. This is a Nigerian family issue, and we hope peace will prevail.”
Idris reassured that engagement with protest organizers and stakeholders has been ongoing. “Engagement is continuous. The President has met with key stakeholders multiple times, and other government officials are also in dialogue. We know this is the only country we have, and we believe Nigeria will be better for all of us,” he added.
Dialogue and Engagement
The government’s appeal comes amid rising frustration over economic conditions. Idris stressed the importance of dialogue and reassured that all voices are being heard. “In a democracy, everyone is entitled to their opinion. Protesters are Nigerians, and their views are respected. However, the President has asked for calm and more time to address the issues,” he said.
The government’s approach aims to address concerns through peaceful dialogue rather than confrontation. This strategy includes continuous engagement with various stakeholders to find common ground and solutions to the economic woes.
Idris also responded to statements from prominent Nigerians, including a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN), who insisted that the protests must go on. “He is entitled to his opinion in a democracy. But we are all acting in the interest of Nigeria. The President’s message is clear: calm down and give us more time. Everything asked for will be addressed,” Idris reiterated.
Ministers and Government Officials Rally for Unity
Several key government officials attended the meeting, showing a united front. The attendees included Nyesom Wike (FCT), Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs), Zephaniah Jisalo (Special Duties), Tahir Mamman (Education), Abubakar Bagudu (Budget and Planning), Wale Edun (Finance), Mohammed Idris (Information), Bello Matawalle (Defense), David Umahi (Works), and National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu.
The collective presence of these ministers underscores the government’s commitment to addressing the nation’s challenges. The emphasis is on working together to find solutions and ensuring that the government’s efforts are communicated effectively to the public.
Idris concluded with a call for patience and unity, highlighting the government’s round-the-clock efforts to improve the situation. “All hands are on deck. The President and his ministers are working tirelessly. We ask for calm and patience from Nigerians. The government is listening and committed to addressing all concerns.”
The Federal Government’s appeal for postponing the protest is a strategic move to buy time for implementing economic reforms. The call for unity and patience reflects the government’s recognition of the public’s frustration and its commitment to finding sustainable solutions. The coming weeks will be crucial as the government works to demonstrate progress and restore public confidence.
Source: Vanguard
