The Federal Government has expressed its support for the right of citizens, particularly young people, to protest, acknowledging their grievances and the importance of free expression.
However, the government issued a stern warning against any form of destruction of national infrastructure during protests, emphasising the need for peaceful demonstrations.
This statement was made by the Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, in Abuja on Monday.
Olawande noted that while the government recognises the validity of the issues raised by protesters, it is crucial for demonstrations to remain peaceful and not escalate into violence or the destruction of public property.
Voicing his support for the right to protest, Olawande even mentioned that, had he the time, he would have joined the protests himself.
He said, “Everyone has the right to protest. In fact, if I had the time, I would join the protest myself. There is freedom of expression for all. The young people who are protesting have valid reasons—they see certain issues and feel the need to speak up. That’s why they are taking to the streets.
“However, while exercising this right, let it not escalate into something else. We will not allow anyone to destroy the infrastructural developments that support our economy and the progress we’ve made in this country.
“Yes, you have the right to speak, to come out and make your voice heard—even to stand by the roadside—but do not block the roads. Find a peaceful way to express your concerns; people will listen. If I have the opportunity, I’ll be there to speak with them as well.
“Protesting is a normal part of any society, and we are here to listen. No government is saying you shouldn’t protest—but there must be limits and a sense of responsibility.”
Police Fire Tear Gas At Protesters
Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force on Monday dispersed protesters with tear gas in Abuja and Rivers State.
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In the the Federal Capital Territory, the demonstrators carried placards bearing inscriptions such as “Stop the Repression” and “Let Us Breathe,” as they marched through the streets.
Human rights activist and former presidential candidate Omoyele Sowore was also present at the protest ground to show solidarity with the movement.
The protesters, who had gathered peacefully to express their grievances, were thrown into disarray as the tear gas canisters sent many scampering for safety.
Also, officers of the Rivers State Police Command on Monday morning fired teargas at protesters gathered at the Isaac Boro Park in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital.
“Nobody can tell us where not to gather, we are Rivers people,” the young demonstrators told the policemen who warned them not to hold the protest.
Policemen gave the protesters a hot chase and beat up some of them including journalists reporting the event.
The protest, which is part of a nationwide demonstration spearheaded by the Take-It-Back Movement and other civil society organisations, began earlier in the day to draw attention to several national issues.
Key among the concerns raised by the organisers are the alleged misuse of the Cybercrime Act, the worsening economic hardship in the country, and what they described as a “state of emergency” in Rivers State.
