The pan-Yoruba socio-cultural and political group, Afenifere, has attributed the planned nationwide protest in Nigeria to the policies of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The group, through its publicity secretary, Justice Faloye, expressed its support for the protest while cautioning against any form of violence.
Speaking on Arise TV’s Morning Show on Thursday, Faloye clarified that while Afenifere will not directly participate in the protest, it fully backs the demonstrators. He highlighted that the harsh economic conditions and hunger, exacerbated by the government’s policies, have spurred the call for protest, criticizing the palliatives introduced by the Tinubu administration as insufficient.
“Afenifere is not planning to join the protest but we uphold the fundamental human rights of Nigerians. We have consistently warned against the prevailing hardships. It’s unreasonable to expect a hungry man to remain passive,” Faloye stated.
He emphasized the need for economic and political restructuring in Nigeria, lamenting that the current measures are merely superficial. “We acknowledge their rights and foresaw this reaction, but the government must take responsibility for its economic policies. The so-called ’10 days of rage’ is a consequence of Tinubu’s policies. While we don’t outrightly endorse the protest, we understand it as an organic reaction to the situation.”
Faloye reiterated Afenifere’s stance on peaceful protest, distancing the group from violence but supporting the right to voice concerns. “We support anyone who wishes to protest against anti-people government policies. Often, it’s not the people who cause problems but the government and political thugs. We stand with the protest, provided it remains peaceful.”
In summary, Afenifere calls for a peaceful demonstration, advocating for the rights of Nigerians to express their grievances while urging the government to reconsider its economic strategies.
