24 hours to hunger protest, Tinubu discloses possible action of "faceless organisers"

Legit.ng journalist Esther Odili has over two years of experience covering political parties and movements.

State House, Abuja - On Wednesday, July 31, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu appealed to Nigerians to shun the planned nationwide hunger protest.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, made the plea at a briefing in Abuja, on Wednesday, alongside four key ministers and the special adviser to the president on information and strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

According to Akume, better days are ahead and Nigerians will soon breathe a sigh of relief.

The SGF noted that President Tinubu recognises the right to peaceful protest but circumspection should be the watchword.

Speaking further, he added that the federal government was weary of protests being hijacked by bandits, insurgents, and other criminals.

Akume, however, urged the citizens to go about their legitimate businesses and avoid actions capable of disturbing the peace of the country.

The SGF begged Nigerians to pursue the path of peace, dialogue and collaboration.

He said:

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is in the light of these aforementioned situation and accomplishments that we wish to inform you that Nigeria is a work in progress and in due course, we shall breathe a sigh of relief.“The ongoing economic hardships would abate very soon and we shall all enjoy endless prosperity.“We therefore appeal to Nigerians of whatever persuasion, belief, demography, gender and status to shun calls for protest against hunger by prioritising peace and progress.”

He added:

”For the avoidance of doubts, the government of President Tinubu recognises the right to peaceful protest but circumspection and vigilance should be our watchwords.”

Others present at the briefing are the minister of information and national orientation, Mohammed Idris Malagi, the coordinating minister of the economy and minister of finance, Wale Edun, the minister of budget and national planning, Abubakar Atiku Bagudu and the minister of solid minerals, Dele Alake.

Source: Legit.ng