CNPP Urges FG to Address Public Concerns and Warns Against Crackdown Ahead of Protest

As a nationwide protest against the escalating hardship in Nigeria approaches, the Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has issued a warning to the Federal Government against targeting individuals perceived as critics of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.

The protest, mobilized under the hashtags #TinubuMustGo and #Revolution2024, is scheduled for August 1. CNPP, which represents various Nigerian political parties and associations, urged the government to address the real concerns of Nigerians, including rising living costs and job losses, instead of attempting to silence dissent.

In a statement signed by Deputy National Publicity Secretary Comrade James Ezema, the CNPP criticized the government’s attempts to blame individuals and groups for the anticipated protests. The statement condemned any efforts to stifle those expressing the public’s grievances.

NIGERIA NEWS 247 reports that presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga has controversially accused Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, of orchestrating the protest. Onanuga suggested that Obi could be held responsible for any disruptions during the protest, leading to speculation about a potential arrest for treason.

The CNPP’s statement accused the government of desperation to maintain power, warning that attempts to suppress the protests could exacerbate tensions, as seen in recent events in Kenya. The CNPP urged the government to address the underlying issues driving the protests rather than resorting to repression.

The CNPP called on President Tinubu to urgently address the suffering of Nigerians by reducing the cost of governance. Recommendations include cutting the number of ministers and political appointees by 60 percent and slashing public office holders’ allowances.

The statement emphasized the need for the government to prioritize the welfare of its citizens and demonstrate a commitment to reducing waste, corruption, and extravagance. The CNPP urged Nigerians to support these measures to alleviate financial burdens and enhance government efficiency.

The CNPP also vowed to continue monitoring the situation and take constitutional actions if the government fails to address public concerns. “We will not stand idly by while the government tries to suppress the voices of the distressed and hungry citizens,” the CNPP concluded.