The Federal Government has issued a new security alert ahead of the nationwide protest set for August 1, 2024. In a statement released on Wednesday, the government voiced concerns that bandits and insurgents might hijack the planned demonstrations.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, addressed journalists and media executives at Radio House in Abuja, urging Nigerians to seek alternative methods of engaging with the government rather than protesting. Akume emphasized that while the administration supports the right to peaceful protest, the risk of criminal elements exploiting the situation necessitates caution.
“Government is wary of the dangers associated with protests that are vulnerable to being hijacked by bandits, insurgents, and other criminals,” Akume stated. “We request that dialogue should be advanced, and we remain open to such. Protesting is not the solution to the challenges the President Bola Tinubu-led administration is working to solve.”
Akume reassured citizens that the government is addressing economic hardships and working towards sustainable solutions. He appealed to Nigerians to prioritize peace and progress and to avoid actions that might disrupt national stability.
“We, therefore, appeal to Nigerians of whatever persuasion, belief, demography, gender, and status to shun calls for protest against hunger by prioritizing peace and progress,” Akume said. “For the avoidance of doubts, the government of President Tinubu recognizes the right to peaceful protest but circumspection and vigilance should be our watchwords.”
Akume reiterated that economic prosperity remains a key goal of the administration, which inherited significant economic and security challenges. He detailed ongoing efforts to reform the economy, enhance security, and promote investment.
“This administration, at inception in May 2023, inherited an economy in need of urgent, bold, and imaginative reforms. Policy measures, including the removal of an unsustainable fuel subsidy regime, had to be taken,” Akume explained. “The administration similarly inherited a security situation that had existed for two decades and required greater attention in terms of upgrading security architecture and infrastructure.”
Akume concluded by urging citizens to maintain peace and work collaboratively with the government to achieve national stability and prosperity.
“Together, we shall create a Nigeria where peace and stability are not merely aspirations but realities, where economic growth is not just a goal but a tangible outcome, and where the dreams of our people are transformed into a shared national destiny,” he stated.
