The National Leader, All Progressives Congress (APC), Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), Aare Hon Tolu Bankole, has urged all concerned parties to exercise restraint regarding the planned nationwide protest.
He made the appeal in a statement he personally signed on Monday, noting that it is essential that “we avoid a repetition of the unfortunate violence witnessed during the EndSARS movement.”
According to him, while protest is a fundamental democratic right, it must be conducted in a manner that ensures the safety and well-being of all citizens.
“The risk of such demonstrations being hijacked and spiraling into violence is significant, and I stress that our priority should be to engage in constructive dialogue with government officials at all levels,” he appealed.
Bankole noted that President Bola Tinubu has implemented several policies aimed at revitalizing the economy and improving the standard of living for all Nigerians. Notable among such are; Economic Diversification,
Infrastructure Development, Social Welfare Programs, Anti-Corruption Measures, among others.
“President Tinubu’s administration has placed a strong emphasis on diversifying the economy beyond oil, focusing on agriculture, technology, and manufacturing to create sustainable job opportunities.
“Significant investments in infrastructure are underway, including improvements in transportation networks, energy sector reforms, and urban development projects designed to boost economic activity and provide better public services.
“The administration has introduced various social welfare initiatives to support vulnerable populations, including enhanced healthcare services and education reforms aimed at improving access and quality.
“President Tinubu’s commitment to tackling corruption is central to his economic policy, ensuring that public resources are used efficiently and transparently,” he highlighted.
He further advocated for peace as any protest will have more adverse effects on People with disabilities, being the most vulnerable ones in the society.
“Persons with disabilities are among the most vulnerable in our society, and any violence or disruption from protests could have disproportionately adverse effects on them. It is therefore imperative that we advocate for peaceful methods of engagement to ensure their safety and well-being.
“I call on all stakeholders to channel their energies into meaningful dialogue and collaboration with the government, rather than risking escalation into violence. Together, we can work towards positive change while safeguarding the rights and lives of every Nigerian.” the APC Chieftain concluded.
The agitation for a 10-day nationwide protests starting from August 1st, to express citizens’ grievances over the economic situation and hunger perceived to be the ripple effects of bad governance in the country has dominated the public space in recent days.
While several stakeholders have been expressing fear over the impending dangers of the protests, calling for its cancellation, many activists and social commentators such as Aisha Yesufu, Deji Adeyanju, and Omoyele Sowore, among others, have expressed their support, insisting the country can’t afford to maintain the status quo