Former Minister of Education, Obiageli Ezekwesili, has expressed support for the upcoming nationwide protest planned by Nigerian youths from August 1-10, 2024, attributing the unrest to the distress caused by the government’s economic policies.
In a statement titled “My Position on the Nationwide Protest of our Young Citizens,” Ezekwesili criticized political leaders for their lack of empathy towards the citizens suffering from significant economic hardship.
Ezekwesili emphasized that many citizens, particularly the youth, are deeply affected by the prevailing economic conditions, which they largely attribute to bad governance. She urged the government to engage with citizens and address their economic challenges directly.
“All reasonable people know that the majority of our citizens—especially the young ones—are distressed on many counts, from biting economic hardship that is prevalent in the country today. They blame it on Bad Governance and are therefore demanding an end to it,” she stated.
She warned against the government’s potential use of security agencies to suppress the protests and called for a peaceful and orderly demonstration. Ezekwesili urged political leaders to learn from the past experiences of the EndSARS protests, emphasizing the importance of humility and listening to the concerns of the youth.
“I urge the Nigeria President, Nigeria Senate and House of Representatives leadership and members, as well as Governors across the country, to not waste the golden opportunity that the planned protests are offering them as holders of public positions,” she said.
Ezekwesili called on the authorities to ensure the safety of protesters and to respond constructively to their demands. She highlighted the need for a convincing plan from the government to address the specific issues raised by the protesters.
