The Presidency has condemned the demands of the recent hunger protesters, labeling them as misguided and potentially harmful to the country.
According to Stanley Nkwocha, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communication to Vice President Kashim Shettima, the protests have been hijacked by individuals with sinister motives, leading to violence, looting, and chaos in major cities.
Nkwocha emphasized that while peaceful protest is a powerful tool for driving positive change, the recent protests have crossed the line with heinous economic crimes committed against traders and innocent citizens.
He also criticized the waving of Russian flags and calls for military takeover as unpatriotic and dangerous.
The Presidency argued that the protest demands are misguided, particularly the call for the reversal of fuel subsidy removal, which is seen as a necessary reform to stabilize the economy and promote growth.
Instead, Nkwocha urged Nigerians to support President Tinubu’s economic policies and embrace his call for dialogue.
The statement comes as the country grapples with the aftermath of the protests, which resulted in widespread destruction and loss of life.
The Presidency’s stance is likely to spark further debate and discussion on the role of protest in driving change and the government’s response to dissenting voices.
