By Harriet Tornguvan
The Honourable Minister of State for Defence, H.E Dr. Bello Muhammed Matawalle, MON, has called on Nigerians to remain calm and disregard the planned national protest set for next week. This announcement was made in a press statement on Thursday, July 25, 2024, by Henshaw Ogubike, Director of Information and Public Relations.
Dr. Matawalle expressed concern over the anonymity of the protest's organizers, contrasting it with previous protests where the leaders were publicly known. "The identities of those behind this protest remain undisclosed, raising questions about their intentions. It is alarming and suspicious," he remarked.
The Minister urged the organizers to come forward and engage in dialogue with the government. He assured Nigerians that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, is open to discussions and resolving issues through peaceful means. "The Tinubu administration is dedicated to dialogue and resolving challenges amicably, as demonstrated in the peaceful agreement reached with Organized Labour on the minimum wage," he stated.
Dr. Matawalle warned of the potential for the protest to be hijacked by disruptive elements, which could lead to violence and disunity. "We must stay vigilant and prevent those with harmful intentions from disturbing our peace and unity," he emphasized. He cited the negative consequences of similar events in other countries, urging Nigerians to avoid such outcomes.
He reiterated that while peaceful protests are a constitutional right, violence in the name of protest is a crime. "Our laws and international law uphold the right to peaceful assembly, but they do not condone violence and destruction. Protecting citizens from violence and ensuring public safety is paramount," he noted.
Dr. Matawalle called for collective responsibility in maintaining national peace and unity, encouraging Nigerians to reject actions that could lead to instability. "Let us work together to build a stronger and more united Nigeria. Dialogue and peaceful engagement are the best ways to address our concerns," he advised.
The Minister reaffirmed the government's commitment to addressing the concerns of all Nigerians through constructive engagement and dialogue. "The government is here to serve and protect the interests of every Nigerian. Let us choose the path of peace and progress," Dr. Matawalle concluded.
