“Shun Protests Against Tinubu,” Urges Eze Ndigbo of Lagos

As Nigeria grapples with an escalating food crisis and widespread economic hardship, concerns over potential social unrest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration are mounting. However, Igwe Christian Uchechukwu Nwachukwu (JP), the Eze Ndigbo of Lagos State, has called for calm and urged Nigerians, particularly the Igbo community, to refrain from participating in planned nationwide protests.

During an interview in Lagos over the weekend, Igwe Nwachukwu acknowledged the severe economic challenges facing the nation. He emphasized that the Tinubu administration is actively working on policies and programs aimed at revitalizing the economy and alleviating the hardships experienced by Nigerians.

“I appeal not only to Ndigbo but also to all Nigerians to shun any protest that may worsen the suffering of the already distressed Nigerians,” Nwachukwu said. “There is a need for us to maintain law and order in the country. Any breakdown of law and order would be a disaster. I urge us to engage in positive dialogue.”

Nwachukwu expressed his concern about plans for a nationwide protest from August 1 to 10 against the rising cost of living. He urged Nigerians to be patient, highlighting that President Tinubu is making concerted efforts to address these economic challenges.

The Igbo leader praised Tinubu’s early initiatives, including reforms of the petrol subsidy regime and the unification of foreign exchange rates, which have received commendations both locally and internationally. He also noted the administration’s commitment to economic reforms and development, led by Vice-President Shettima.

Igwe Nwachukwu emphasized the importance of dialogue and constructive engagement over protests. “Issues are not resolved through protest but through dialogue,” he said. “We as leaders must work for justice.”

He also highlighted Tinubu’s measures to ease economic burdens, such as increasing the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000 and dispatching 740 trucks of rice to each state and the Federal Capital Territory. Additionally, he mentioned the initiation of the Lagos to Calabar Coastal Road project, aimed at fostering development and growth nationwide.

In conclusion, Nwachukwu called for patience and support for the Tinubu administration as it navigates these challenging times, urging Nigerians to focus on constructive dialogue to achieve lasting solutions.