Presidency: Denying Nigerians The Right To Protest is Not An Option

Presidency: Denying Nigerians The Right To Protest is Not An Option

On TVC’s *Politics on Sunday* with Femi Akande, Ajuri Ngelale, Special Adviser to the President on Media and Publicity, addressed concerns regarding the government’s position on the upcoming peaceful protests scheduled for August 1-10…….. CONTINUE READING

“We are not here to dominate our people but to serve them,” Ngelale emphasized.

He affirmed that no part of the administration has the authority to block Nigerians from exercising their right to peaceful protest. Ngelale acknowledged concerns that the demonstrations could be misused, similar to the #EndSARS protests of 2020.

Reassuring citizens, Ngelale expressed President Tinubu’s commitment to addressing Nigeria’s economic challenges despite the issues inherited from the previous administration.

He admitted that Nigerians are experiencing significant economic strain but assured that the government is taking steps to improve living standards in the short, medium, and long term.

Ngelale urged patience, explaining that development takes time and cannot be achieved instantly. He highlighted several ongoing government initiatives, such as single-digit interest rate loans for over one million MSMEs, reconstruction of seaports and roads nationwide, the Student Loan Scheme, the Consumer Credit Program, and an increase in the national minimum wage.

“These initiatives may take time to show results, but they are crucial for the country’s economic recovery and growth,” he said.

He pointed out the extensive infrastructure projects underway, including over 300 roadways being reconstructed, the Lagos to Calabar super-highway, and major seaport renovations costing $1 billion.

“These projects are creating jobs and supporting our drive for foreign investment,” Ngelale noted. He also stressed the need for effective implementation of policies at all government levels to avoid administrative inefficiencies and delays.

Ngelale highlighted various social investment programs and the significant impact of a recent Supreme Court ruling granting fiscal autonomy to local government councils. He described this as “restructuring in practice,” and urged Nigerians to allow time for these changes to positively affect their lives.