Peter Obi, a former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, has recently addressed the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests that have swept across Nigeria. Obi has called on protesters to adopt a non-violent approach and emphasized the importance of maintaining peace during these turbulent times.
In a statement issued late Friday via X, Obi responded to the tragic loss of lives during the nationwide protests, which began on Thursday. The protests, driven by widespread hunger and hardship, have seen significant unrest and violence in various parts of the country. Obi’s message aimed to calm the situation and advocate for peaceful demonstrations.
Obi expressed deep sorrow for those who have lost their lives. He stated, “I wish to most sincerely pass my condolences to the families of all those who lost their lives in the ongoing #EndBadGovernance protests. I deeply mourn these brothers and sisters of ours, who have lost their lives in their struggle for a better nation.” His statement reflects a profound empathy for the victims and their families, highlighting his concern for the human cost of the protests.
Acknowledging the grievances that have sparked the demonstrations, Obi recognized the protesters’ demands and expressed hope that their voices would be heard and addressed. “I do hope that their legitimate demands, within the law, will not go unanswered,” he said. This statement underscores Obi’s support for the protesters’ cause, provided it is pursued through lawful means.
Obi urged the protesters to maintain a peaceful stance throughout their demonstrations. He remarked, “I will continue to urge the protesters to be of good behavior and remain peaceful in their actions. I encourage them to shun every form of violence, as we cannot build a new nation by destroying what we already have.” Obi’s call for non-violence is a crucial component of his message, aiming to ensure that the protests do not spiral into further chaos and destruction.
In addition to urging protesters to avoid violence, Obi also called on security agencies to exercise restraint. He said, “I also call on the security agencies to remain civil in their security of lives and property in the ongoing protests.” This call for measured responses from the security forces is intended to prevent escalation and ensure that the rights of both protesters and non-protesters are respected.
Obi’s statement also reflected his optimism about Nigeria’s future. He expressed a firm belief in the country’s potential to overcome its current challenges. “I sincerely believe in my heart that Nigeria will in the future rise, and the issues of hunger, poverty, insecurity, corruption, and mismanagement of public funds will be confined to the past. Then, Nigeria will be one of the exemplary countries on earth, leading in human and national development,” he asserted. This vision for Nigeria represents a hopeful outlook on the country’s ability to address its systemic issues and emerge as a model of progress.
The protests have resulted in significant unrest across several states, including Abuja, Kano, Niger, Borno, Kaduna, and Jigawa. Reports indicate that at least 17 people have lost their lives due to the violence that has erupted during these demonstrations. In response to the unrest, businesses and banks have been forced to close, and major roads have been left deserted. The protests have continued into Friday, with clashes between police and protesters reported in various locations.
