Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s (LP) presidential candidate for the 2023 elections, has voiced his support for the upcoming nationwide protest set for August.
Speaking in Abia State, the former Anambra State Governor emphasized that the Nigerian Constitution protects the right to protest, urging demonstrators to remain peaceful and within the law.
During a courtesy visit to Abia State Governor Alex Otti at his residence in Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area, Obi highlighted the issues driving the protests. “Hunger and hopelessness among the youth are fueling these demonstrations,” he noted, calling on Nigerian authorities to engage and listen to the protesters.
“In the Nigerian Constitution, protest is allowed,” Obi told Channels Television. “All I plea for those who are protesting is to do so within the law and in a civil manner that allows us as a nation to show that we live within the law.”
Acknowledging the country’s current difficulties, Obi stressed the importance of government responsiveness. “We all have to listen to what Nigerians are going through, and I thank our governor for doing so. It is important,” he added.
Peter Obi reiterated that peaceful protest is a fundamental right and part of democratic practice globally. He also mentioned that protests have taken place at his own residence, though he did not specify the nature of these demonstrations.
He called on security agencies to ensure the safety of the protesters and to act within legal boundaries. “What I will say to security agencies is that they manage the situation again within the law. We should not strive to be overbearing,” Obi stated. “Protest is allowed everywhere globally. It is for us to listen to those who are protesting. Why are they protesting? Engage them; that is what governance is all about.”
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