Tinubu Opens Up on Political Plots Behind Hunger Protest

• President Bola Tinubu has warned hunger protesters to be wary of the few with political plots to destabilise the country
• The president issued the warning during his state broadcast on the ongoing hunger protest in the country on Sunday, August 4
• Tinubu condemned the violence in the protest and expressed concerns about the loss of young Nigerians' lives in the protest

Aso-Villa, Abuja - President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has called on #EndBadGovernance protest organisers not to allow themselves to be used by a few with a political agenda.

In a nationwide broadcast on Sunday, August 4, monitored by Legit.ng, the president described their actions as "violent" and expressed concern over the loss of lives, particularly among young Nigerians. He acknowledged the protesters' desire for a better country but condemned the destruction and looting that has occurred.

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The President expressed pain and sadness over the loss of lives in various states, including Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna, and lamented the destruction of public facilities and private properties. He emphasized that such destruction sets the nation back and wastes scarce resources.

Tinubu mourns victims of hunger protests' violence

President Tinubu commiserated with the families of those who died in the protests and emphasized the need to stop further bloodshed, violence, and destruction. He reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining public order and protecting the lives and property of citizens.

The President warned that his government will not allow a few individuals with a political agenda to tear the country apart. He vowed to take action to restore peace and stability while also upholding his constitutional oath to protect the lives and property of every citizen.

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His statement reads in part:

"As President of this country, I must ensure public order. In line with my constitutional oath to protect the lives and property of every citizen, our government will not stand idly by and allow a few with a clear political agenda to tear this nation apart.”

Hunger protest: List of states curfews were declared

Legit.ng earlier reported that the hunger protest, which began on Thursday, August 1, has been gaining momentum across the country. Protesters are demanding action from the government to address the widespread hunger and economic hardship faced by many Nigerians.

Despite the challenges, the protesters have remained resolute, with many vowing to continue their demonstrations until their demands are met.

There have been recent reports of violence in some states, and in some instances, some of the protesters resulted in looting. The police, in responding to this situation, opened fire on some protesters, and no less than 17 people were killed on day one of the protest. Some governors have also declared curfews in their states to ensure that the protest did not escalate.

Source: Legit.ng