Niger State Govt Denies Hardship Protest Despite Evidence

The Niger State Government has refuted claims that youths in Suleja took to the streets on Monday to protest the high cost of living crisis in Nigeria.

Earlier reports by Naija News had indicated that protesters, wielding placards with inscriptions such as “Enough is Enough,” “Stop Anti-Masses Policies,” “We Are Not Slaves In Our Country,” “Hardship Is Unbearable,” and “Fuel Subsidy Must Be Back,” marched through the streets, chanting anti-government songs.

However, the Special Adviser on Print Media to Governor Mohammed Bago, Aisha Wakaso, dismissed these reports.

In a statement titled, “Niger State Government Dismisses False Reports of Protests, Urges Residents to Continue Daily Activities Without Fear,” Wakaso clarified that there were no protests in the state.

The statement reads, “The Niger State Government firmly dismisses recent online reports by a media platform claiming that protests have commenced on the Abuja-Kaduna road in Niger State.

“We assure all residents that these reports are unfounded and that no such protests have taken place in the state.

“The Chairman of Suleja Local Government, Ishaku Bawa Naibi, has confirmed that no protests occurred in his jurisdiction. Additionally, security reports from the area corroborate this statement, indicating that there have been no disruptions or demonstrations in the State.

“We call on all law-abiding citizens to continue their legitimate business without fear of harassment or intimidation. The Niger State Government remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents.”