The representative of Ukanafun/Oruk Anam Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Rt.Hon Unyime Idem has called on Nigerians to exercise patience with government while trying to fix the economy.
In a message ahead of the planned nationwide protest billed to take place from 1st August 2024, the lawmaker acknowledged protest as a fundamental right of the Nigerian citizen, as enshrined in sections 38, 39 and 40 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
He noted that over the years, protest has been an avenue for citizens to ventilate their grievances and call government’s attention to grey areas that need to be addressed.
Recalling the ENDSARS protest in 2020, the lawmaker said although the intention was genuine and sincere, but along the line, the protest was infiltrated and hijacked by hoodlums. That action led to wanton destruction of lives and properties, looting of businesses, which ultimately affected the economy of Nigeria.
“I dare say that many businesses have not recovered since that event took place about four years ago.
“Again, while we applaud the gallant unwavering efforts of our security personnel, we must also admit that they are already overstretched, given the security situation in our country. I therefore think that, while it is their responsibility to protect protesters to ensure their safety and guard against infiltration and hijack by hoodlums, it is safer and more reasonable to choose the option of dialogue and negotiations, so as not to overstretch our security personnel the more.
To this end, I plead that citizens should shelve the planned protest and rather engage the government. The federal government is just a little over one year in office. Please, let’s exercise patience, give it sometime to work things out”
Hon Idem who is the chairman of the House of Representatives’ Committee on Public Procurement said President Bola Tinubu and governors of respective states, through their programmes and policies mean well for the citizens. “Their intentions and programmes are tailored towards ameliorating the current economic situation we’re facing. They are working tirelessly to get the country out of the current situation. Therefore, I urge us to encourage and support them to bring their plans to fruition. That way, we all win.
“We cannot afford to plunge our economy into further depression, our businesses to more stress, and our people into more squalor, rather, we should join hands with government to raise the bar and move us to the state and country of our collective dream and aspiration.
Please, let’s give dialogue a chance. Let’s sheath our swords. Let’s shelve the protest” he appealed
