President Bola Tinubu vowed on Sunday that his administration would not permit a small group with political motives to destabilize the nation.
In a nationwide broadcast addressing the ongoing national hunger protests, Tinubu underscored his commitment to maintaining public order.
“In line with my constitutional oath to protect the lives and property of every citizen, our government will not stand idly by and allow a few with a clear political agenda to tear this nation apart,” Tinubu declared.
He urged protesters and organizers to suspend further demonstrations and engage in dialogue, emphasizing the need for unity across all divides to reshape Nigeria’s future.
Tinubu warned those exploiting the situation to threaten any part of the country, stating, “The law will catch up with you. There is no place for ethnic bigotry or threats in the Nigeria we aspire to build.”
Addressing the nation with a heavy heart, Tinubu acknowledged the turmoil and violence in various states, including Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna.
He expressed sorrow over the loss of lives, the destruction of public facilities, and the looting of shops, which contradicted the promise of peaceful protests.
“The destruction of properties sets us back as a nation,” he said. “Scarce resources will again be diverted to restore what has been lost. I extend my condolences to the families affected by the violence. We must halt further bloodshed and destruction.”
The president reiterated that democracy thrives when the constitutional rights of all Nigerians are respected and protected. He urged law enforcement agencies to uphold their duty to protect innocent lives and properties responsibly.
Tinubu reflected on the nation’s economic struggles, acknowledging that temporary solutions had failed to address long-term problems.
He defended his decision to remove fuel subsidies and abolish multiple foreign exchange systems, actions he described as necessary to combat economic mismanagement and promote development.
“These decisions were essential to reverse decades of economic mismanagement,” Tinubu said. “While the responsibility ultimately falls on me, I am dedicated to delivering good governance.”
The president assured Nigerians, particularly the youth, that he understood their frustrations and was committed to addressing their concerns.
“We must avoid violence and work together to build a future where every Nigerian can live with dignity and prosperity,” he stated.
Tinubu emphasized the collective nature of the task ahead, noting ongoing efforts to stabilize the economy and improve national infrastructure.
He urged Nigerians not to be misled about their government’s commitment to their welfare, promising that the benefits of his administration’s efforts would soon be evident.
“We are in a new era of Renewed Hope,” he concluded. “We are working hard for you, and the results will soon be visible and concrete for everyone to see and enjoy.”
