The Federal Government has urged Nigerians for patience amidst growing hardships and calls for nationwide protests against President Bola Tinubu’s administration. Promising to handle the protests as a “family matter,” the government is committed to resolving all issues to maintain peace and stability.

On the same day, South-East governors advised against the protests, citing the country’s tense atmosphere. The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) urged both federal and state governments to heed the people’s cries and warned against using brute force to suppress the protests. Similarly, the Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives called for dialogue with the protesters, while human rights activist Femi Falana warned the government against threatening the protest organizers.

Following a meeting of the Federal Executive Council, Information and National Orientation Minister Mohammed Idris addressed the media. He emphasized that the current situation is being treated as a family issue and assured that peace would prevail. He highlighted ongoing engagement with stakeholders and reiterated the administration’s commitment to working in Nigeria’s best interest.

Idris stated, “Engagement has been ongoing. The President and other government officials have been meeting with key stakeholders. We believe Nigeria will be better for all of us.” He also addressed concerns from individuals like Femi Falana, emphasizing that everyone is entitled to their opinions in a democracy. He called for calm and patience, ensuring that the government is working tirelessly to address all concerns.

South-East governors, led by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, advised against the protests, planned to begin on August 1. Uzodimma argued that the current economic downturn affects the entire world and that the protests could be hijacked by unscrupulous individuals, as seen during the #EndSARS protests. He urged protest organizers to reconsider, given the nation’s fragile state.

The NLC clarified that it was not organizing the protests but stood in solidarity with the Nigerian people. NLC President Joe Ajaero called on the government to dialogue with the protest organizers and warned against using brute force. He reiterated that the NLC supports the people’s right to protest but emphasized the need for the government to address the root causes of the discontent.

Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer, cautioned the government against using threats to deter protest organizers. He suggested identifying and engaging with the leaders of the movement to address their demands. Falana emphasized the importance of addressing the concerns raised by the protesters to avoid escalating tensions.

The Minority Caucus in the House of Representatives also urged the government to engage with the planned protesters. Chairman Kingsley Chinda stressed the importance of addressing the protesters’ concerns through dialogue. He expressed concerns about the potential for peaceful protests to be overtaken by hoodlums, given the current insecurity in some parts of the country.

The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) summoned an emergency meeting of all its state chairmen to discuss strategies to prevent the nationwide protests. The APC emphasized the need for patience and confidence in President Tinubu’s efforts to address the nation’s economic challenges. The party’s National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, acknowledged the global nature of the economic issues and assured that the government is working towards long-term solutions.

The Oba of Benin, Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Ewuare II, appealed to the protesters to shelve their plans and give President Tinubu time to implement his economic policies. The Oba emphasized that the government’s policies are aimed at alleviating the current hardships and urged patience from the public.

The Federal Government’s call for patience and dialogue reflects its commitment to addressing the nation’s economic challenges and maintaining peace. As tensions rise, the government’s ability to engage effectively with stakeholders and address the protesters’ concerns will be crucial in ensuring stability and progress for Nigeria.