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Ogun NRM Condemns Government’s Alleged Efforts to Suppress Protests

Written by Deborah Oyinloye on August 2, 2024

News Views: 74

The Ogun State Chapter of the National Rescue Movement (NRM) has denounced the government’s alleged efforts to undermine protests, which the NRM views as a fundamental expression of citizens’ constitutional rights.

In a statement released on Friday, Olujobi Fayoyin, the acting state Chairman of the NRM, criticized the irony of current government officials—who once actively protested against the status quo—now working to stifle public dissent.

Fayoyin condemned the alleged government sponsorship of counter-protests, asserting, “It is very reckless and inhumane for the government to sponsor a protest against those who want to exercise their civic rights as bona fide Nigerians who have a constitutional right to protest.”

He further stated, “It shows that the government is not ready to listen to people, and therefore, whatever happens at the end of this protest will be a result of what the government has orchestrated against the protesters.”

Fayoyin emphasized the betrayal of public trust by officials who previously supported protests but now aim to suppress them. He warned that those who obstruct the right to protest should not be given political support in future campaigns.

The NRM urged the government to adhere to democratic principles by engaging with citizens’ grievances through dialogue rather than force. Fayoyin stressed that officials must serve the people genuinely to restore faith in Nigeria’s political system.

He urged, “Anyone who wants to serve in government must be ready to listen to the people and must do their will since democracy is a government of the people, by the people, and for the people.”

Fayoyin also called on all politicians to collaborate in building the nation instead of eroding public trust. He appealed to the President and state governors to address the people with understanding rather than resorting to displays of force.

The statement follows widespread protests on August 1st, where demonstrators voiced their concerns over the rising cost of living. Prior to these protests, some groups, reportedly sponsored by the government, attempted to disrupt the planned demonstrations.