#EndBadGovernanceInNigeria: Listen to Nigerians, NRM tells FG

The Ogun State Chapter of the National Rescue Movement has criticized the government for allegedly funding protests aimed at dissuading citizens from exercising their constitutional right to protest.

The NRM emphasized that the Federal Government needs to heed the voices of Nigerians and cease its efforts to undermine these demonstrations.

In a statement released on Friday, Olujobi Fayoyin, the acting chairman of NRM in Ogun State, pointed out the contradiction of current officials who once protested while in opposition now trying to stifle public expression.

Fayoyin remarked that such behavior is a betrayal of public trust, stating it is both reckless and cruel for the government to finance protests against individuals seeking to assert their civic rights as legitimate citizens with constitutional privileges.

He warned that this indicates a refusal by the government to engage with its populace, suggesting that any fallout from these protests will stem from government actions against demonstrators.

Those currently in power, who previously took part in protests against prevailing conditions when they were not in control, should recognize that attempting to hinder or disrupt gatherings now is unjustifiable.

Those in government responsible for these actions clearly lack compassion for the public, and they should not be granted another opportunity during political campaigns.

The NRM has urged the government to uphold democratic values by addressing citizens’ concerns and engaging in constructive dialogue instead of resorting to coercion.

The chairman emphasized the importance of public officials genuinely serving the populace to restore confidence in Nigeria’s political landscape.

Anyone aspiring to hold a governmental position must be willing to listen to the people’s voices and act according to their wishes, as democracy is fundamentally about serving the people.

We must embody our ideals; failing to do so will lead to a complete loss of trust in politicians, which may become impossible to recover, he warned.

Fayoyin urged all politicians to unite in their efforts to strengthen the nation rather than undermine Nigerians’ trust. He also called on the President and state governors to communicate with citizens clearly and effectively, rather than demonstrating force against them.

On Thursday, citizens throughout Nigeria gathered in demonstrations to voice their concerns, especially regarding the escalating cost of living.

Before these protests occurred, certain groups—reportedly backed by the government—attempted to disrupt the planned events by presenting themselves as opponents to the protests. Additionally, during the protest on August 1st, some demonstrators faced aggression from these opposing groups.