The Federal Government of Nigeria has expressed its opposition to planned protests over the country’s economic conditions, citing concerns about potential disruptions and security threats. The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, addressed the issue on Wednesday, stating that while the government acknowledges the constitutional right of Nigerians to protest, there is a risk of the demonstrations being hijacked by individuals seeking to cause unrest.

During a courtesy visit from the Charismatic Bishop Conference at his office in Abuja, Minister Idris emphasized that the administration led by President Bola Tinubu supports the rights of citizens to engage in peaceful protests. However, he highlighted the government’s responsibility to maintain public order and protect the rights of others.

“The government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu believes in everyone’s freedom within the laws to do what they think is right for them. Therefore, the President is not an opponent of protest of any kind, but he is an opponent of violence and anything that will negatively hamper the wellbeing of Nigerians,” Idris stated. “We know that it’s almost impossible to hold this protest and then have peace at the end of the day. Some people are waiting to take the laws into their own hands.”

Minister Idris also noted that President Tinubu is aware of the genuine concerns expressed by Nigerians and is working to implement policies aimed at alleviating economic challenges. One such policy includes providing stipends to unemployed university and polytechnic graduates until they secure formal employment.

“Beyond that, there is a new policy that the President has formulated. All young men and women who have finished universities and polytechnics, have certificates, and have completed their mandatory NYSC will have something from the government to keep them afloat until they get jobs,” the minister explained.

In response to the planned protests, Archbishop Leonard Kawas, President General of the Charismatic Bishops Conference, stated that the conference does not support the nationwide protest scheduled to begin on August 1, 2024. He urged for patience and continued dialogue with the government to address grievances.

“We have decided to sue for peace and humbly request that our brothers and sisters who are aggrieved give us some time while we continue to communicate and negotiate with this government on areas that are pertinent to them,” Archbishop Kawas said.

The protests are expected to run from August 1 to 10, 2024.