- The party acknowledged the rich history of protests in Nigeria, dating back to the first republic in 1965.
- The PRP noted that protests have been an essential part of the democratic process, allowing citizens to express their grievances and demand change.
The Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) has expressed its support for the right to peaceful protest, while also urging the federal government to listen and address the demands of protesters.
In a statement by Falalu Bello, its national chairman, the party acknowledged the inherent right of citizens to protest and exercise their fundamental freedoms, as enshrined in the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
Bello said protests have been an essential part of our democratic process, allowing citizens to express their grievances and demand change.
“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 statement reads.
” 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 urged the government to address the demands of protesters and other voices of reason to achieve good governance in Nigeria by tackling corruption, insecurity, and excessive spending.
The statement said that the PRP is committed to democratic principles and good governance, believes peaceful protests are essential to the democratic process, adding that it urges protesters to remain peaceful and respectful, and encourages the youth to exercise their constitutional rights by electing responsible parties like the PRP in the forthcoming elections.