Protests: PRP calls for peaceful resolution

The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has demanded for a peaceful resolution to the proposed nationwide protest tagged “End Bad Governance” scheduled to hold between August 1 and 10, 2024 saying protest is enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended).

A statement signed by PRP’s national chairman, Falalu Bello and made available to Tribune Online, while urging protesters to be peaceful to the rights of every Nigerian whether protesting or not, called on the Federal Government to listen to the demands of the protesters through good governance by checking excessive and wasteful spending.

“The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) acknowledges the inherent right of citizens to protest and exercise their fundamental freedoms, as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), particularly Section 40, which guarantees the right to peaceful assembly and association.

“In this regard, we note that protests in Nigeria have a rich history, dating back to the first republic in 1965 when Nigerians demonstrated against a tariff increase. Since then, various protests have been held, including the June 12 Protest in 1993 and the Occupy Nigeria movement in 2012, among others. These protests have been an essential part of our democratic process, allowing citizens to express their grievances and demand change.

“The current wave of protests in Nigeria is a testament to the resilience and determination of our citizens to demand better governance and improvement in their living conditions. We urge the government to listen attentively to the cries of the protesters and take concrete steps to address their concerns. In the last 9 years, the PRP has consistently advocated for good governance in Nigeria. We have called for a reduction in the cost of governance, urging the government to prioritize prudent spending and eliminate wasteful expenditure.

We have also emphasized the need to tackle corruption head-on, holding those in power accountable for their actions and ensuring transparency in public transactions. Furthermore, we have pushed for improved security measures to ensure the safety and well-being of all Nigerians.

“As we call for peaceful resolution, we urge our fellow Nigerians, particularly the youth who constitute 60% of our electorate, to join us in changing the APC government that has further worsened the life of Nigerians from where PDP took them. In plural democracy, we believe that our collective voice can bring about positive change and restore hope for a brighter future.

“On the other hand, it is equally important that protesters exercise their rights responsibly and peacefully. We condemn any form of violence, vandalism, or harm caused to other citizens or their properties. It is essential that protesters respect the law and order, while also demanding justice and accountability from those in power.

“The PRP calls on the government to listen to voices of reason inclusive of that of the  protesters who have advised on how to bring good governance in Nigeria by addressing excessive and wasteful expenditures, bringing prudence into governance, addressing corruption and insecurity in Nigeria.

“As a party committed to democratic principles and good governance, we believe that peaceful protests are an essential component of our democratic process. We encourage all stakeholders to work towards finding a resolution that promotes peace, stability, and development for all Nigerians.

“In conclusion, we urge the protesters to be peaceful and respectful to  the rights of all Nigerians inclusive of those  who are not participating in the protest and strongly recommend to particularly the youth amongst them to endeavour to exercise their constitutional  rights and responsibilities of ensuring that In the forthcoming elections they go out in their numbers to elect responsible and principled parties like the PRP that would represent their aspirations and address their concerns,” the statement concluded.