We need dialogue, not nationwide protests – FG

The Federal Government has urged Nigerian youths to opt for dialogue rather than protests, emphasizing that protests could lead to negative consequences.

Alhaji Mohammed Idris, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, made this statement during a briefing with State House correspondents following the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting on Monday.

Idris explained that the FEC’s stance is that many of the issues raised by protesters are already being addressed by the federal government.

He acknowledged that while peaceful protests are a democratic right, there is concern that such demonstrations might be co-opted by malicious actors and potentially turn violent.

“We recognize the right of citizens to protest peacefully; however, we urge that such actions be reconsidered.

The government’s main concern is that protests could be hijacked and escalate into violence,” Idris warned.

He added that President Tinubu has heard the grievances of those planning to protest and assured that the government is already taking steps to address their concerns.

For instance, efforts are being made to improve food availability. Recently, the government distributed 20 trucks of rice to state governors for distribution to the most vulnerable, with the rice sold at about 50% of its market value.

“The distribution of rice is just the beginning. We are aware that this is not a complete solution, but it is a critical first step.

The government is investing heavily in agriculture to address food prices and improve availability as the rainy season progresses,” Idris noted.

He also highlighted recent initiatives, such as the disbursement of student loans, which currently supports over 2 million students, though only about 110,000 applications have been processed so far.

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Additionally, there are plans to support unemployed youth and reduce transportation costs through the CNG initiative, aimed at cutting transportation costs by up to 60% when fully implemented.

Meanwhile, Lateef Fagbemi, the Attorney General and Minister of Justice, announced the approval of three key memos focused on combating crime and corruption.

These include agreements on the exchange of information and mutual assistance for bringing fugitives to justice, as well as arrangements for transferring convicts between countries, specifically between Nigeria and Spain.

Fagbemi assured that there will be no refuge for criminals, stating, “The law will reach them, regardless of where they try to escape.”

NAN