The Senator representing the Central Senatorial District of Cross River State, Senator Eteng Jonah Williams has urged his constituents who are bent on embarking on the planned #endbadgovernment protest to apply restraint and not allow the ill fate of the end SARS protest to reoccur in the state.
The Senator who made the call yesterday acknowledged that it is constitutional for citizens to embark on peaceful protest, stressing that President Tinubu is acutely aware of Nigerians’ challenges and hardships.
He maintained that the Tinubu-led government has outlined a comprehensive economic plan aimed at addressing these issues holistically and sustainably that seeks to, amongst others, Stabilize the economy and control inflation; Promote job creation and economic growth; Improve infrastructure and energy production; Enhance agriculture and food security; and Combat corruption and promote transparency.
He said ‘’I have no doubt in my mind about the harsh livelihood conditions that our people have been forced to endure as a result of the battered economy and cannot in all good conscience try to stop you from exercising your constitutional right to protest. After all, one cannot beat a child and at the same time forbid it from crying.
‘’As the nation stands on the precipice of its very existence and survival, I believe it is important that we take a stand as a people and make the choice that should lead to a stronger, more caring and accountable nation.’’
‘’Let me however, urge you if you must exercise your constitutional rights to protest, we do in a peaceful and responsible manner, taking into consideration the fact that Cross River, more than any other state suffered the most severe loses during the last national protest by youths across the country. While we are still labouring to rebuild these iconic assets that were so maliciously decimated, we cannot return to the path of destruction while youths of other states are making efforts to protect theirs.’’ The Senator said.
He further admonished his constituents to cooperate with the government of Cross River State assuring them of light at the end of the tunnel ‘’His Excellency, the People’s First Governor, Prince Bassey Edet Otu is remodeling a new Cross River, with all the indices showing a brighter outlook for stability and prosperity for all. He is very concerned about your suffering and is ready to do anything to alleviate our people’s present suffering.
‘’However, the success of any government’s economic plan depends heavily on the cooperation and support of its citizens.
‘’In the face of difficulties facing the country, it is essential that we stand together. Let me assure all of you that the worst part has passed and the economy will begin to heal in a few months.’’