Hardship: Peter Obi Supports National Protest, Otti Disagrees

The Labour Party’s Presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, and Abia State Governor Alex Otti have shared their views on the planned protests against hardship set to begin on August 1st.

The two leaders, speaking after a breakfast meeting at Otti’s country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA on Sunday, emphasized that the protests must remain within legal bounds.

Governor Otti expressed concern that the protests might be hijacked by unpatriotic elements, potentially causing more problems than intended. “We have seen protests hijacked before. My fear is that this one will also be hijacked,” he said.

He advised the people of Abia not to join the protests, warning that they could end up being more harmful than helpful. “Even writing a letter is a form of protest. You can express your displeasure through letters or calls. But when protests turn to mayhem and violence, it is unacceptable,” Otti stated.

Otti also stressed that those not participating in the protests have the right to their freedom and should not be affected by the actions of others. He acknowledged the hunger and economic hardships caused by long-term bad governance and emphasized the need for Nigeria to transition into a productive economy that relies less on imports.

Peter Obi attributed the planned protests to widespread hunger and hopelessness. “Within the Nigerian constitution, protests are allowed. I plead for those protesting to do so within the law and in a civil manner,” Obi said.

Obi also urged security agencies to manage the protests lawfully and called on the government to engage in dialogue with the protesters to address their concerns. “The real sponsors of these protests are hunger and hopelessness among the youths. We must listen to what Nigerians are going through,” he concluded.