The Federal Government has backed the right of Nigerians, especially the youth, to protest, but urged them to avoid actions that could lead to violence or damage national infrastructure.
Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, made this known in Abuja on Monday, April 7.
“Everyone has the right to protest. In fact, if I had the time, I would join the protest myself. There is freedom of expression for all.
“The young people who are protesting have valid reasons—they see certain issues and feel the need to speak up. That’s why they are taking to the streets,” Olawande said.
He stressed, however, that the demonstrations must be peaceful and not devolve into destruction or chaos.
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“However, while exercising this right, let it not escalate into something else. We will not allow anyone to destroy the infrastructural developments that support our economy and the progress we’ve made in this country,” he said.
Olawande encouraged protesters to express their concerns in a non-disruptive way.
“Yes, you have the right to speak, to come out and make your voice heard—even to stand by the roadside—but do not block the roads. Find a peaceful way to express your concerns; people will listen. If I have the opportunity, I’ll be there to speak with them as well,” he added.
“Protesting is a normal part of any society, and we are here to listen. No government is saying you shouldn’t protest—but there must be limits and a sense of responsibility,” he said.