Peter Obi, the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, has affirmed that protests are permitted under the Nigerian Constitution.
This statement comes in the context of a proposed nationwide protest organized by some Nigerian youths, scheduled to take place from August 1-10, in response to the current economic situation in the country.
In an interview with Channels TV following his visit to Abia State Governor Alex Otti on Sunday, the former Governor of Anambra State urged protesters to conduct their demonstrations in a civil manner. Obi emphasized that the driving forces behind the August protest are the widespread hunger and hopelessness among Nigerians.
“Protest is allowed within the Nigerian Constitution. All I plead for is that those who are protesting do so within the law and in a civil manner, demonstrating that we live within the law as a nation,” Obi stated.
He continued, “Everyone knows that things are difficult. When they talk about the sponsors of the protest, I say the sponsors are very simple: it is hunger and hopelessness among the youths. So, we all have to listen to what Nigerians are going through.”
Obi also called on security agencies to handle the situation lawfully and avoid excessive force. “To the security agencies, I urge them to manage the situation within the law. We should not try to be overbearing. Protests are allowed everywhere globally. Listen to the reasons why people are protesting, engage and talk with them; that is what governance is all about,” he added.
