The Presidency has affirmed that Nigerians have a constitutional right to peaceful protest, which cannot be denied.
This statement came amidst pro-government protests organized by All Progressives Congress (APC) leaders in various state capitals and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
In response to an upcoming protest scheduled for Thursday, August 1, which is expected to last for ten days, the Federal Government is reportedly taking steps to address the concerns of the youth.
Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun has called a meeting with Mr. Ebun Olu-Olu-Adegboruwa, SAN, the legal adviser to the protest organizers, to discuss the situation.
The call for peaceful protest has been widely supported, with 36 civil society organizations reiterating the fundamental right of citizens to protest as a key aspect of democratic governance.
Damilare Adenola, a leader of the planned protest and convener of the Take-It-Back Movement, emphasized that the Federal Capital Territory Minister, Nyesom Wike, cannot deny the organizers the use of Eagle Square, a public facility.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio attributed the planned protest to political figures who lost the 2023 elections, suggesting they aim to gain power through alternative means.
Meanwhile, the APC’s South-West Executive Committee urged Nigerians to disregard the protest, assuring that current hardships would soon be alleviated.
In preparation for the protest, Minister of Education Prof. Tahir Mamman has directed universities to ensure the security and safety of staff, students, and property.
Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, Ajuri Ngelale, reiterated on TVC that peaceful protest is a fundamental part of democracy, emphasizing that the administration is committed to serving the people, not dominating them.
He stressed that President Bola Tinubu supports the right to peaceful protest across Nigeria.