In response to growing calls for anti-hunger protests, President Bola Tinubu held a series of emergency meetings with All Progressives Congress (APC) state governors, prominent traditional rulers, and Islamic religious scholars at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja on Thursday. The aim was to prevent the nationwide protests, scheduled from August 1 to 10, amid escalating economic hardships.
Key Meetings and Attendees
President Tinubu first convened with the APC governors under the Progressives Governors Forum at 1 PM. The meeting lasted approximately an hour and 15 minutes and followed an earlier session by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum. Notable attendees included National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Minister of Finance Wale Edun, and Minister of Budget and Economic Planning Abubakar Bagudu.
Subsequently, Tinubu met with traditional rulers at the Council Chamber from 2:30 PM to 4 PM. Among the traditional leaders were the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, and the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. Vice President Kashim Shettima, Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume, and Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun were also present.
The President’s day concluded with a meeting with Ulamas, which ended after 6 PM.
Traditional Rulers Advocate for Dialogue
Following the meetings, traditional rulers urged the protest organizers to engage in dialogue with the government to avoid potential violence. The Ooni of Ife emphasized the importance of constructive dialogue and warned against the destructive potential of the protests.
“The President has said, ‘any leader that you don’t like, wait [until 2027] and vote him out.’ He is open to dialogue. We know that Nigeria faces many challenges. But are we going to destroy our nation by ourselves?” said Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi.
The Emir of Zazzau, Ahmed Bamalli, expressed concerns over the protests potentially shutting down the country and highlighted the link between insecurity in the north and the nation’s food crisis.
Calls for Patience and Constructive Engagement
The Dein of Agbor Kingdom, Ikenchukwu Keagborokuzi I, appealed to Nigerian youths to collaborate with the government and not resort to protests that could lead to further instability. He referenced the aftermath of the Arab Spring in Libya as a cautionary example.
The National Orientation Agency also urged traditional leaders to educate the youth about the dangers of the planned protests. Similarly, the Oluwo of Iwo, Oba Abdulroshed Akanbi, suggested a national dialogue involving opposition parties, labor unions, and other stakeholders to address the nation’s challenges.
Security Concerns
The Nigerian Army and the Department of State Services (DSS) warned of plans by unscrupulous elements to hijack the protests and turn them violent. Major-General Edward Buba of the Defence Headquarters emphasized the need for dialogue and cautioned against the potential for anarchy.
Presidential Stance on Protests
President Tinubu reaffirmed his commitment to democratic principles, including the right to protest, but condemned any demonstrations that could lead to violence and property destruction. He made this clear while receiving the newly appointed United States Ambassador to Nigeria, Richard Mills Jr.
Opposition’s Call for Presidential Address
Shehu Gabam, National Chairman of the Social Democratic Party, urged President Tinubu to address the nation directly to alleviate public concerns and misconceptions. He stressed the importance of clear communication from the President amidst the growing unrest.
As the nation anticipates the planned protests, the government’s efforts to engage with various stakeholders reflect a commitment to maintaining peace and addressing the underlying economic issues.
