The Africa Network for Environment and Economic Justice (ANEEJ) has thrown its support behind the planned nationwide protest scheduled to begin tomorrow. The organization views this action as a crucial step to draw the government’s attention to the widespread hardship resulting from the removal of fuel subsidies and the floating of the Naira.
David Ugolor, Executive Director of ANEEJ, released a statement on Wednesday, describing the current economic situation as untenable. He urged the government to take necessary actions to improve governance and alleviate the suffering of Nigerian citizens.
Ugolor stated, “We wholeheartedly endorse the planned protest as a constitutional right of our people to ventilate their grievances and raise their voices against bad governance. We however urge protesters to avoid violence, looting and destruction of property. The focus should be on the key issues and the National demands.”
Addressing recent government efforts to forestall the protest, Ugolor commented, “These measures are not sufficient to assuage Nigerians, and the government needs to cut down on wastage and cost of governance. The leaders must lead by example by reducing the profligacy being showcased by the current political leaders.”
Ugolor emphasized the importance of protests in strengthening democracy and improving governance. He noted, “Protesting is not just a right; it is a powerful tool for societal change. It allows citizens to publicly voice their concerns, challenge injustices, and actively participate in the democratic process.”
The ANEEJ director also addressed concerns from protest opponents, particularly pro-establishment figures.
He asserted, “Protests are not about destruction, they are about sending a strong message to the government that it is our legitimate right to express dissatisfaction on how the economy is badly managed.”
Highlighting specific grievances fueling the protest, Ugolor mentioned alarming inflation in food prices, high unemployment rates, questionable management of oil importation, insecurity, and widespread corruption. He called on the government to respond constructively by implementing policies that address these concerns.
ANEEJ urged all participants in the “#EndHunger” and “#EndBadGovernance” protests to remain peaceful and focus on core issues and national demands. These include reducing the cost of living, curbing insecurity, reducing the cost of governance, and implementing electoral, judicial, and constitutional reforms.
“Every protest is a testament to the democratic spirit and the will of the people to shape a just and accountable society,” Ugolor noted.
Encouraging citizens to actively participate in shaping Nigeria’s future, he stated, “Let us remember that our voices, united and peaceful, are stronger than any force that seeks to suppress them. As the saying goes, ‘The pen is mightier than the sword.’ Let us use our voices to write a brighter future for Nigeria.”
