Abuja, Nigeria – Prominent human rights lawyer Femi Falana has urged the Federal Government to engage with organizers of a planned nationwide protest rather than issuing threats. The protest, scheduled for next month, aims to address the harsh economic conditions facing Nigerians.
Nationwide Protest: Give me some time, Tinubu Pleads with Nigerians
Social media platforms have seen a surge in hashtags promoting the protest, sparking concern from the Federal Government and security agencies. Despite warnings against the demonstration, Falana believes that threats will only intensify public discontent and potentially escalate the situation.
During an appearance on Channels Television’s Politics Today on Tuesday, Falana questioned the effectiveness of the government’s approach. “How do you identify those who are issuing statements; those who are planning the protest, and then engage with them productively?” he asked. “But threats do not work. In fact, on some occasions, the desperation of the government also has a way of popularizing such protests.”
Breaking: Popular Police Inspector Takes His Life
Calls for Dialogue
President Bola Tinubu has urged the organizers to cancel the protest, promising a government response to their concerns. “The issue of the planned protest, Mr President does not see any need for that. He’s asked them to shelve that plan. He’s asked them to await the government’s response to all their pleas,” said Minister of Information Mohammed Idris at the State House in Abuja.
Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Egbetokun also issued a warning, suggesting that the protest could turn violent.
However, Falana insists that the government should focus on dialogue rather than intimidation. He emphasized the importance of identifying and engaging with the leaders of the protest movement. “This time around the government should try to identify the leaders of the movement and then engage them, and then the questions be raised. There are demands that are being made, and the government should address these demands,” he said.
Falana also highlighted the necessity for transparency and communication from both federal and state governments. “Between now and the first of August is still a long way and I understand the government is going to address the nation.
It is also important for governors to really come out and let the people know what they are doing to address hardship in the country which nobody is denying.
