The Social Democratic Party (SDP) has announced its support for the planned nationwide protest against the worsening economic hardship in Nigeria. The endorsement was made by the SDP’s National Chairman, Shehu Gabam, during a press conference in Abuja on Wednesday.
Gabam expressed deep concern over the severe economic challenges facing many Nigerians, emphasizing that the demonstration is in the interest of the masses. His remarks come just a week after Hope Uzodimma, Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, absolved President Bola Tinubu of responsibility for the country’s inflation and economic woes, attributing the hardship to global economic conditions.
Addressing journalists in Abuja, Gabam affirmed the SDP’s solidarity with the protesters and called for peaceful conduct to prevent the demonstration from being hijacked by malicious actors.
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“We in the Social Democratic Party support the protest. We call on all security agencies to be civil in responding to the yearnings and concerns of millions of Nigerians,” Gabam stated. “They must remember that the protesters are their brothers and sisters, not enemies of the state. The struggle for a better Nigeria is the responsibility of all, irrespective of our political differences or ethnic backgrounds.”
Gabam underscored the SDP’s commitment to advocating for a better Nigeria where everyone has access to opportunities, justice, and prosperity. He urged the government to align itself with the people’s aspirations and work towards alleviating their suffering.
Meanwhile, a civil society organization, the Door-to-Door Youth and Women Initiative for Good Governance, has urged the protest organizers to reconsider their approach. The group’s convener, Khadija Yusuf, suggested that strategic engagement and collaboration with the government would be more effective in addressing the economic challenges.
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“As the call for the #EndBadGovernance protest gains momentum, I urge you to channel your remarkable strength and wisdom towards dialogue, collaboration, and constructive engagement,” Yusuf said. “While protest is a fundamental right, it is evident that these recent calls have been highly sensationalized and carry glaring political undertones.”
Yusuf warned against allowing the protests to be manipulated by those with ulterior motives, noting that some voices pushing for the demonstrations have political agendas. She emphasized the need for genuine and constructive efforts to address the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
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The SDP’s endorsement of the protest highlights the growing discontent among political and civil society groups regarding the country’s economic situation.
As preparations for the demonstration continue, the focus remains on ensuring a peaceful and constructive expression of the people’s grievances.
Source: News Agency Of Nigeria (NAN)