Salihu Lukman, the former National Vice Chairman for the North-West of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has accused President Bola Tinubu’s administration of aggressively mobilizing opposition and thugs to thwart protests scheduled between August 1 and 10, 2024.
According to Lukman, the government’s actions indicate a desperate attempt to undermine the planned demonstrations.
In a statement released on Sunday in Abuja, Lukman pointed out that on July 25, 2024, President Tinubu convened a meeting with governors, traditional rulers, and religious leaders. This meeting reportedly led these influential figures to urge Nigerians to exercise patience and avoid participating in the upcoming protests.
Simultaneously, the Department of State Services (DSS) announced it had uncovered a plot by alleged criminal elements to hijack the protests, while the Defence Headquarters issued warnings against any violent activities by protesters. Lukman criticized these developments, suggesting they reflect a recurrent pattern used to suppress legitimate expressions of public dissent.
Lukman argued that such tactics—claims of opposition hijacking and warnings of violence—are familiar strategies employed whenever Nigerians seek to challenge government policies through protests. He accused security agencies of exacerbating violence through heavy-handed responses rather than addressing the root causes of public discontent.
He further criticized President Tinubu for his rapid and seemingly unplanned policy shifts, such as the abrupt end to the petroleum subsidy and the floating of the Naira exchange rate without adequate preparation. Lukman questioned the rationale behind these policies given the lack of a clear plan to enhance local production and manage the economic impact on the populace.
Lukman lamented the president’s handling of critical issues, including the delayed improvements in local refining capacity and the ongoing disputes between NNPC and Dangote Refinery. He expressed disappointment in Tinubu’s leadership, noting that despite past campaign support, the current administration has failed to address the worsening living conditions of Nigerians.
In closing, Lukman expressed frustration with what he perceives as Tinubu’s failure to live up to expectations, describing the president’s approach as one that prioritizes political maneuvering over effective governance. He highlighted the stark contrast between the transformative impact Tinubu had as Governor of Lagos State and his perceived shortcomings as President of Nigeria.
