- Peter Obi endorsed the nationwide protests against economic hardship, urging lawful conduct from protesters and respect from security agencies
- He emphasized the importance of engaging with protesters to address their grievances, responding to accusations from President Tinubu’s adviser
In last year’s general elections, Peter Obi, the Presidential Candidate of the Labour Party (LP), endorsed the planned nationwide protests over the current economic hardship. The protests, organized by some youths, are set to take place from August 1 to 15 and address the rising cost of living and economic challenges.
Speaking on Sunday after meeting with Governor Alex Otti of Abia State, Obi emphasized that protesters must conduct themselves within the boundaries of the law. He urged security agencies to remain law-abiding, noting that protests are a globally recognized right.
“Protest is allowed within the Nigerian constitution. All I plead for is that those protesting do so within the law and in a civil manner that allows us as a nation to show that we live within the law. Everybody knows that things are difficult,” Obi stated.
He pointed out that the primary drivers of the protests are hunger and hopelessness among the youth, stressing the need for authorities to listen to the protesters’ grievances.
“I will tell the security agencies to ensure they manage the situation again within the law. We should not strive to be overbearing. It should be something that we will do within the law. There is nothing wrong. Protest is allowed globally. People also protest in my house,” he added.
Obi underscored the importance of engaging with protesters to understand their concerns, highlighting that governance involves listening to the people’s issues. This marks the first time Obi has publicly expressed his stance on the protests.
Previously, Special Adviser to President Bola Tinubu on Communication and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, had accused Obi of being linked to the protests, alleging that his supporters were planning mayhem in Nigeria. Obi issued a 72-hour ultimatum for Onanuga to apologize, threatening a defamation libel lawsuit if the demand was unmet. Obi’s counsel, Alex Ejesieme, demanded that the apology be published in four national newspapers and Onanuga’s verified X handle #aonanuga1956.
Obi’s legal team described the allegation as a “calculated plot” to demean and embarrass their client, causing significant harm to his reputation and emotional well-being. They stressed that Obi, known for his law-abiding nature, has a long record of constructive engagement in private and public life.
However, Onanuga refused to apologize, daring Obi to meet him in court.