Widespread Anger and Hunger Fuel Planned Nationwide Protest – Governor Makinde

 

Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has attributed the planned nationwide protest on August 1 to the widespread anger and hunger experienced across Nigeria. Speaking at the grand finale of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Week, organized by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Makinde highlighted the frustrations driving citizens to the streets.

Key Points from Governor Makinde’s Address

Makinde made these remarks at the event held on Saturday at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, the state capital. He emphasized the constitutional right of Nigerians to protest, urging them to exercise this right peacefully and responsibly.

• Cause of Protest: The governor acknowledged that the economic hardship and widespread hunger are the primary reasons behind the planned protest.
• Right to Protest: He reaffirmed that protesting is a fundamental right of the people, stressing the importance of maintaining peace and order during demonstrations.
• Protection of Public Property: Makinde advised protesters to avoid damaging government property. He reminded them that public funds, contributed by citizens, were used to build these infrastructures.

Makinde's Appeal for Peaceful Demonstrations

Governor Makinde stressed the importance of peaceful protests, cautioning against the destruction of public facilities. He pointed out that any damage to government property would divert funds from meaningful projects to repairs and replacements.

"Nigeria could be in this situation for now. We could be experiencing anger and hunger in the land and that is why our people want to protest. Yes, protest is everybody’s right. But remember that we used your money to build all the structures and facilities we have put in place in this state, not mine. So, if you want to protest, it must be peaceful. If you begin your protest, don’t destroy government properties, otherwise, we will have to use the money we are supposed to spend on meaningful projects to replace facilities that may get destroyed."

Upcoming Nationwide Protest

The nationwide protest scheduled for August 1 aims to address the issues of hunger and economic hardship affecting millions of Nigerians. The call for peaceful demonstrations echoes across the nation, as citizens prepare to voice their grievances in a manner that seeks to uphold public order and safety.

Conclusion

Governor Makinde's appeal underscores the delicate balance between exercising the right to protest and maintaining public infrastructure. As the nation gears up for the August 1 protest, his call for peaceful and responsible demonstrations resonates with the broader need for constructive civic engagement.