Protesters should remember that Nigeria’s economy relies heavily on daily earnings— Open Salawu
Muftau Open Salawu, an engineer and aide to Governor Seyi Makinde has cautioned those planning national protest on August 1, 2024 to think creatively, seek fresh ideas, and engage constructively in the democratic process, stating that Nigeria’s economy relies heavily on daily earnings, and many citizens live hand-to-mouth.
Salawu, who gave the admonition in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday, added that prolonged protests can have devastating effects, as seen during the End SARS protest in Lagos State.
Expressing his concern that recent protests have been infiltrated by individuals with ulterior motives, deviating from the original intentions, the Ogbomoso born politician noted that, “This puts innocent citizens, particularly the poor and traders, at risk of harm and financial loss due to looting and vandalism.”
The statement added: “While President Tinubu was once a serial protester, his perspective has likely changed now that he’s in office and understands the complexities of the issues. The removal of fuel subsidies, for instance, was initially protested against during President Jonathan’s tenure, only for the opposition to later agree to it. In fact, all three major presidential candidates supported subsidy removal, making it a collective economic decision rather than a solo choice by Tinubu.
“Regarding economic policies, Nigeria often hastily adopts foreign models without considering local implications. We lack standardized systems, and basic amenities like power, water, transportation, healthcare, and shelter are inadequate. Even simple things like a reliable database are missing; our census figures are often compromised by communities inflating numbers for their benefit.
“I urge those planning protests to remember that Nigeria’s economy relies heavily on daily earnings, and many citizens live hand-to-mouth. Prolonged protests can have devastating effects, as seen during the End SARS protest in Lagos State. I implore Nigerians to think creatively, seek fresh ideas, and engage constructively in the democratic process.”
Engr. Muftau Open Salawu, Giwa Adini of Oyo State.
Babalaje of Ogbomosoland
Wazir Jari Nupe.