Nigerian President Bola Tinubu has urged protesters to suspend their demonstrations against the country’s economic hardships, emphasizing that he has heard their concerns and is committed to addressing them through dialogue. In his first public remarks since the protests erupted last week, Tinubu called for an end to the violence that has plagued several states since the demonstrations began, stating that he is always open to engaging in constructive discussions.
Amnesty International, a prominent human rights organization, has accused security forces of killing at least 13 protesters, while the police have reported seven fatalities and denied responsibility for the excessive use of force. In his televised address on Sunday, Tinubu empathized with the protesters, acknowledging the pain and frustration that have driven them to the streets. He reassured the Nigerian people, particularly the youth, that his government is dedicated to listening to their concerns and taking concrete actions to alleviate their economic struggles.
However, Tinubu firmly stated that violence and destruction cannot be tolerated, as they threaten to tear the nation apart. Since assuming office in May 2023, Tinubu has defended his economic reforms, which include a partial removal of fuel and electricity subsidies, as well as the devaluation of the naira. He argues that these measures are necessary to correct years of economic mismanagement and put Nigeria on a path to sustainable growth.
The protests, which began on August 1, have seen thousands of Nigerians taking to the streets to express their discontent with government policies and the rising cost of living. Demonstrators have also organized online campaigns demanding reductions in fuel prices, electricity tariffs, and other economic relief measures. In response to Tinubu’s speech, Lagos-based activist Opeyemi Folarin described it as “underwhelming,” stating that if the president was genuinely open to dialogue, he should have offered some concessions to the protesters.
Folarin emphasized that the protesters remain resolute in their determination to continue until the government addresses their demands, which he considers “non-negotiable.” A small protest in Lagos highlighted that while Tinubu’s administration is prioritizing reforms, the president’s remarks failed to address the core demands of the protesters, particularly the restoration of fuel subsidies. The reporter added that people are desperately seeking relief, which is why the calls for quicker reforms and government action to ease the hardships will persist.
The Nigerian police have reported nearly 700 arrests in the initial two days of the protests, accusing the demonstrators of “armed robbery, arson, mischief,” and property damage. Amnesty International has called for the release of the detained protesters and urged the police to refrain from using live ammunition to disperse the crowds. In his address, Tinubu emphasized that security operatives should continue to uphold peace, law, and order while adhering to the necessary human rights conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory.
The president also mentioned that his government is increasing investment in infrastructure projects, has initiated a loan program for university students, and is constructing thousands of housing units across all 36 states in Nigeria. These measures are aimed at creating jobs and improving the living standards of the Nigerian people. Despite these efforts, the protesters remain unconvinced, and the calls for economic relief and government accountability continue to echo across the nation.
