Planned protests: SGF meets Tinubu’s cabinet as APC holds emergency meeting

As the clock ticks down to the planned nationwide protests against economic hardship, Nigerian leaders are calling for calm and patience. The government, increasingly apprehensive, is taking steps to address the brewing discontent.

On Tuesday, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) George Akume and National Security Adviser (NSA) Nuhu Ribadu held a crucial meeting with ministers to discuss the looming protests. The meeting, held behind closed doors, saw the attendance of over 40 ministers, including notable figures like Nyesom Wike (FCT), Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs), and Wale Edun (Finance).

Following the meeting, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, addressed reporters, urging Nigerians to trust in the government’s efforts to alleviate the nation’s economic woes. “We are all Nigerians, and we are all acting in the interest of Nigeria,” he said. “We believe that Nigeria is going to move and march on. We don’t think there is a need for any protest. We are appealing for calm.”

In parallel, the National Working Committee (NWC) of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) convened an emergency meeting with state chairmen to strategize on preventing the protests. APC National Secretary, Ajibola Basiru, echoed the call for patience, emphasizing the government’s ongoing efforts to address economic challenges.

Adding to the chorus of appeals, the Oba of Benin, Ewuare II, urged Nigerians to give the federal government time to implement its policies. He emphasized the importance of patience and unity in overcoming the current hardships.

Meanwhile, Daniel Bwala, former spokesperson for the Atiku Campaign Organisation, visited President Tinubu and attributed the protest plans to political and foreign interests. He cautioned against the potential for violence, highlighting the need for a peaceful and constructive approach to expressing dissent.

Despite these calls for restraint, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) clarified its position, stating it was not the organizer of the planned protests but stood in solidarity with suffering Nigerians. NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, urged the government to listen to the people’s cries and address the economic crisis with urgency.

As the nation braces for potential unrest, the government’s plea is clear: patience and dialogue are crucial in navigating these challenging times.