In response to the escalating hardship in the country and rising calls for a nationwide protest slated for August 1 against President Bola Tinubu-led administration, the Federal Government has urged Nigerians to remain patient, assuring them that efforts were being made to address their concerns.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, emphasised that the government was fully engaged and working diligently to resolve the issues at hand.
Speaking after a Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting in Abuja on Wednesday, Idris described the planned protests as a “family matter” that will be resolved to ensure national peace and stability.
“We came together to discuss national interests. You can see that this meeting is happening at the office of the SGF, not the Council Chambers, highlighting its significance. Many ministers are here, working collectively for Nigeria’s betterment,” Idris stated.
Addressing concerns about the planned protests, Idris acknowledged the grievances but urged calm, emphasizing that government officials are equally committed to the nation’s welfare. “Those agitating for protests are our brothers and sisters. This is a Nigerian family issue, and we are looking at it carefully, hoping peace will prevail,” he added.
Regarding engagement with the protest organisers and stakeholders, Idris assured that dialogue had been ongoing. “Engagement is continuous. The President and other key government officials have been meeting with stakeholders. This is the only country we have, and we believe that through ongoing engagement, Nigeria will be better for all of us.”
Responding to the insistence by some prominent figures, including Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana, that protests must proceed, Idris highlighted the democratic nature of Nigeria. “Everyone is entitled to their opinion in a democracy. However, Mr. President has called for calm, emphasizing that there is no need for protests. We are appealing for patience and peaceful resolution.”
The Minister reiterated that the government was attentive to the concerns of Nigerians. “Mr. President and his ministers are working tirelessly. We are all listening, and the President’s message is clear: calm down and give us more time. All pleas will be addressed.”
The meeting was attended by several ministers, including Nyesom Wike (FCT), Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs), Zephaniah Jisalo (Special Duties), Tahir Mamman (Education), Abubakar Bagudu (Budget and Planning), Wale Edun (Finance), Mohammed Idris (Information), Bello Matawalle (Defence), David Umahi (Works), and National Security Adviser (NSA), Nuhu Ribadu, among others.
