Protest: ActionAid Nigeria Calls For Immediate Action From President Tinubu

ActionAid Nigeria has urgently requested that President Bola Tinubu address the nation on the ongoing protest against bad governance.

On Friday, ActionAid Nigeria issued a statement stating that it “stands with the courageous Nigerians taking to the streets in the #EndBadGovernance protests.” The demands for pro-poor policies are not only valid, but also urgent and necessary. Inflation is destroying livelihoods, and some of the government’s current spending priorities are out of sync with the harsh realities that millions of Nigerians face.

“In the face of widespread protests and rising public discontent, it would be disheartening for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain in the background, relying on spokespersons to speak for him.

“The President must immediately address the nation, acknowledge the grievances and concerns that are driving the #EndBadGovernance protests, and provide a detailed plan, complete with clear, time-bound actions, to address bad governance and implement pro-poor policies that can alleviate the severe economic hardships that are currently being faced.”

ActionAid added that: “The recent court rulings restricting protests to specific locations such as the National Stadium in FCT, Peace Park and Freedom Park in Lagos, and Metropolitan Square in Kwara leave much to be desired and set a dangerous precedent that could limit citizens’ rights to free expression. These restrictions silence the people’s voices and undermine the very essence of democratic protest. If the President, Governors, and lawmakers do not visit these restricted areas to hear the people’s complaints firsthand, these restrictions only serve to further isolate the government from the people it is supposed to serve.”

The statement continued, “ActionAid Nigeria’s situation room has observed alarming incidents of unprovoked police violence in Abuja, Lagos, and other locations.” In these cities, tear gas was used without provocation against peaceful protesters, infringing on their rights and exacerbating tensions. This brutality stands in stark contrast to the commendable actions of some police officers, who have protected protesters and kept the peace in certain areas. However, incidents of violence cannot be ignored or excused, especially since approximately twenty people have been killed in various protest locations throughout Nigeria.

“Additionally, hoodlums hijacked protests in Kano, Ibadan, Edo, and Kaduna, resulting in looting and vandalism. These hijackings undermine the legitimate demands of the protesters, creating an environment of chaos and insecurity. Police must act quickly to restore order and protect all protesters and their property. Individuals who loot and destroy public and private property should not be considered genuine protesters; instead, they should face legal consequences.

“ActionAid Nigeria calls on both pro and anti-protesters to keep their demonstrations peaceful and respectful. We also demand that the President address the nation urgently and directly, outlining specific steps to address the issues that have arisen. The protesters’ demands are straightforward: transparency, accountability, and policies that prioritise the welfare of the people. These should be the fundamental duties of any government, not concessions extracted through protest.

“Our situation room is closely following the protests and the government’s response. We have teams deployed throughout the country to ensure that the people’s voices are heard and their rights are protected. We emphasise that the time for action is now. Nigeria’s future depends on responsive, accountable, and people-centered governance. The demands of the #EndBadGovernance protesters are a clear call to action that must be heard.”