ActionAid Nigeria has called on President Bola Tinubu to urgently address the nation regarding the ongoing protests against bad governance. The organization emphasized the importance of pro-poor policies, highlighting the severe economic hardships faced by millions of Nigerians.
In a statement on Friday, ActionAid Nigeria expressed solidarity with the #EndBadGovernance protests, stating, “The demands for pro-poor policies are not just valid; they are urgent and necessary. Inflation is crippling livelihoods, and some of the government’s current spending priorities are out of touch with the harsh realities faced by millions of Nigerians.”
ActionAid criticized the President for not personally addressing the nation amidst widespread protests and rising public discontent. “It would be disheartening for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to remain in the background, sending spokespersons to address the nation on his behalf,” the statement read. The organization urged the President to provide a detailed plan with clear, time-bound actions to address bad governance and adopt pro-poor policies.
The organization also condemned recent court rulings that restrict protests to specific locations, arguing that such limitations curtail citizens’ rights to free expression. “These restrictions stifle the voice of the people and undermine the essence of democratic protest,” ActionAid stated.
Furthermore, ActionAid reported incidents of police violence against peaceful protesters in Abuja, Lagos, and other locations, noting that tear gas was used without provocation. “This brutality is in stark contrast to the commendable actions of some police officers who have protected protesters and maintained peace,” the organization stated. It highlighted that about twenty people have been killed across various protest locations in Nigeria.
The organization also noted that protests in Kano, Ibadan, Edo, and Kaduna have been hijacked by hoodlums, leading to looting and vandalism. ActionAid urged the police to restore order and ensure the safety of all citizens involved in the protests. “Those individuals looting and destroying public and private properties should not be regarded as genuine protesters; they should be dealt with according to the law,” the statement read.
ActionAid called on both pro and anti-protesters to ensure their demonstrations remain peaceful and respectful. They reiterated their demand for the President to urgently and directly address the nation and outline specific measures to tackle the issues raised by the protesters.
“Our situation room is actively monitoring the protests and the government’s response. We have teams deployed across the country, ensuring that the voices of the people are heard and that their rights are protected,” ActionAid stated. The organization emphasized that the future of Nigeria depends on responsive, responsible, and people-centred governance. “The demands of the #EndBadGovernance protesters are a clarion call for change that must be heeded.”