Hunger Protest: ‘Be patient with Tinubu, he will restore economy,- Nwifuru, Umahi tell youths

By Uchenna Okeh, Abakaliki

The governor of Ebonyi State, Francis Nwifuru and the works minister, David Umahi have tasked Nigerian youths to shun the planned nationwide ‘end bad governance/ hunger’ protest taking place tomorrow, 1st August 2024.

They, however, urged the youths to be patient with the federal government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, adding that the economy of the nation will soon be restored by the government.

In their separate reactions, Ebonyi State governor, Nwifuru urged the youths to shun protesting against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The governor and other prominent stakeholders of the state made this known during a one day interactive session with Ebonyi State Youths and Stakeholders, that was held at the Christian Ecumenical Centre, Abakaliki.

“Today is a day set aside to provide governments and other stakeholders in youth development with the opportunity to draw attention to issues that have direct bearing on our resolve to better the lots of our young people.

“This event today is timely and appropriate at this period when our youths are restive and confrontational in their demands for policies that would make them fulfill their life purposes. Today, we gather to listen, to learn, and to collaborate. I want to hear your ideas, your concerns, and your aspirations. We will work together to address the challenges you face and to unlock your full potential.

“I am aware of the planned protest against hunger and bad governance scheduled to take place across the country including Ebonyi State. While I understand the reasons and concerns that have led to this call to action, I strongly urge you all to refrain from participating in this protest.

“As your governor, my administration is committed to addressing the challenges we face, and we are working tirelessly to improve the lives of our citizens. However, protests can often lead to unintended consequences, including violence, destruction of property, and disruption of essential services.

“Instead, I invite you to engage with us through constructive dialogue and peaceful channels such as today’s event. We have established these mechanisms for feedback and complaints, and we are always willing to listen to your concerns.

“I appeal to Nigerians to exercise patience with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration who obviously is making efforts to fix the country and make lives better for the citizens.”

The Minister of Works, David Nweze Umahi called on the youths to shun protests as the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu was already addressing the challenges facing the youths and the country at large.

Umahi, who x-rayed the danger posed by the conduct and organization of protests, assured the youths that no one will be oppressed or look for food in the Country.

Former Governor Martin Elechi and former Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Anyim Pius Anyim who extolled the sterling qualities of Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, noted that the achievements of the Governor have been impactful as youths cannot afford to join any protest, that will destabilize the progress of the State.

Representing members of the House of the Representatives of Ebonyi extraction, Chinedu Ogah, representing Ikwo/Ezza South Federal Constituency, stated that the youths of the State will not be a part of any national protest as they have been accommodated at the level of governance and empowerment.

Other speakers included representatives of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Market Women, Youth Movements and Organizations, National Union of Road Transport Workers, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, among others.

The event witnessed a motion as to whether Ebonyi State will be part of the protests or not. The gathering, after a voice vote conducted by Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, declared that it was not going to be part of the protests. Ends