As the planned nationwide protest over economic hardship draws nearer, Senator Ali Ndume has advised President Bola Tinubu to engage in dialogue with the protest organisers to mitigate tension and prevent the demonstrations scheduled for August 1.
Speaking on Monday’s edition of Channels Television’s Politics Today, the Borno South lawmaker emphasized the importance of addressing the grievances of the predominantly youthful protest organisers.
“I think the President should talk to Nigerians, talk to the youths,” Ndume stated, underscoring the need for communication to avert the planned protests.
Ndume’s comments are in line with the recent statement from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which has also called on President Tinubu to invite the protest leaders for discussions.
The NLC highlighted the escalating economic challenges, including an inflation rate that has surged to 34.19 percent, and increases in food and electricity tariffs, as urgent issues that need addressing.
“As the date for the widely reported national protest looms, the Nigeria Labour Congress urges President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to invite the leadership of the protest movement for discussions on their grievances,” said NLC president Joe Ajaero in a Monday statement.
Ajaero criticized the government’s dismissive stance towards the citizens’ struggles, stating, “It is, therefore, condescending and dismissive to describe the daily brutish ordeal that Nigerians are going through as a sponsored political dissent. Even if it is so, it is still within the confines of citizens’ rights to protest on political grounds. Just that the current unease in the country does not need political motivation to spark and splurge.”
The NLC leader further emphasized that the citizens are seeking empathy and attention from the government.
“All that the hurting citizens demand from their government is a listening ear and an empathetic heart. Maybe, that is what the organisers of the protest are looking for given their continued notices on different social media platforms.”
As the nation braces for the upcoming protests, both Senator Ndume and the NLC have made it clear that constructive dialogue is essential to address the underlying issues and foster peace and stability.