A Civil Society Group has called on the Federal government to look into the demands of the ‘end bad governance’ organizers and identify immediate actions it can take, while also providing timelines for addressing other requests.
The Group which operates under the aegis of the ”Us4Us Movement” made the call in a statement made available to the press on Monday 28, July 2024 by its National Publicity Secretary, Comrade Umezulike Desmond-cruz.
Desmond-cruz advised President Tinubu to activate the structures in the Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and lift the suspension of all Social Intervention programs as that will help cushion the effect of hunger while calling on APC supporters to refrain from making statements that are capable of destroying the unity of the nation.
Below is the full text of the press statement from Us4Us Movement
US4US MOVEMENT
A peaceful protest can quickly turn destructive with the introduction of counter-protests.
It is, therefore, ill-considered and contradictory for the government to attempt to prevent the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protest while simultaneously supporting a counter-protest aimed at undermining it.
As a collective, we are open to discussions about postponing the protest and prefers dialogue, particularly in light of the traumatic events surrounding #EndSARS. However, we are disheartened to witness what seems to be a counter-protest in several states, including Abuja.
Recently, the FCT Minister, Barrister Nyesom Wike, stated that he had not received the letter regarding the use of Eagle Square. Yet, today we saw a handful of women gathered at the Eagles’ Square, protesting against the planned #EndBadGovernance demonstration, under the protection of security forces.
One wonders why the government expresses concern that the August 1 protest might be hijacked by hoodlums and disrupted, yet holds a different view regarding those protesting against it? Why does the Government readily assume that the ‘Say No To Protest’ movement is immune to infiltration?
Nigerians are experiencing hunger and frustration; they have the right to protest. If the government wishes to prevent protests, it should engage in ongoing dialogue, as it has begun to do, rather than sponsoring counter-protests, which can lead to violent unrest.
Governors, particularly those operating from Abuja, should return to their states. All government appointees, especially ministers, should be encouraged to return to their local areas and hold town hall meetings to discuss the need for patience with the government. Members of the National Assembly must also reconnect with their constituents.
President Tinubu should either reinstate Betta Edu as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation or appoint someone else to pilot the affairs of the Ministry, lifting the suspension of all Social Intervention programs. The Ministry is crucial for the country at this time and should not remain vacant for over six months.
Individuals like Senator Godswill Akpabio, the Senate President, and presidential spokespersons such as Bayo Onanuga and prospective appointee Daniel Bwala should avoid making reckless statements.
The government must ensure that resources intended for the public, currently stored in government warehouses, are distributed transparently.
It is vital for the government to consider the demands of the #EndBadGovernance protest organizers and identify immediate actions it can take, while also providing timelines for addressing other requests.
Lastly, and most importantly for us, we believe it is time for President Tinubu to declare a Government of National Unity. He should engage in discussions with opponents from the 2023 presidential elections to explore the best path forward for Nigeria. This move would not diminish his authority but rather enhance his stature as a leader committed to the welfare of his country.
A word is enough for the wise!