Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has voiced his disappointment over the absence of a public statement from the organizers of the planned nationwide protests, explaining their reasons for taking to the streets.
Reports indicate that Nigerians, particularly the youth, are planning to protest against the ongoing economic hardships under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration.
Governor Uzodimma believes it is premature for such protests to occur at this stage of the current administration and has urged those involved to reconsider their plans. Speaking to reporters at the State House after introducing former Senate President Pius Anyim to President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday, Uzodimma mentioned that Southeast governors are opposed to the protests due to concerns about potential disruptions.
“Democracy is about the opinion of the people, and protests are allowed in a democratic setting. However, every protest must be reasonably conceived to make political sense. I think it’s too early at this time in the life of this government for anybody to come out to say they want to protest,” Uzodimma stated.
He highlighted the lack of engagement from the protest organizers, who have yet to provide clear reasons for their actions. Uzodimma also pointed out the global economic situation and domestic insecurity, emphasizing the fragility of the political environment.
“So those who are going to protest, what is the reason for the protests? If they have no reason, I think our advice, as well-meaning Nigerians, is for them to shelve it,” he added.
Uzodimma warned that the timing is not right for dissent and that mishandling the situation could lead to criminal exploitation. He suggested that the motives behind the protests remain unclear and called for transparency from the organizers.
“We are not in support of the protest; we are not going to support any protest that has no clear agenda, that is not discussed, and that nobody knows what the problem is. If you are protesting, what do you want the government to do? The reason for protests is to address specific issues. What are the issues?” Uzodimma questioned.
He concluded by advising against the protests, noting that further unrest could exacerbate the economic hardships already affecting the country.
“I think there is no need to overheat the polity and put our people in a position where the hardships caused by the global economic recession are further worsened. So, I advise against the protests,” Uzodimma said.
