The chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited (TSSNL) and the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo (a.k.a Tompolo), has appealed to those behind the planned August 1 to 10, 2024 nationwide protest to shelve it in the interest of the nation and people.
The Tantita boss in a press statement issued on Friday to react to the development and add his voice to that of other well-meaning Nigerians, including traditional rulers, calling for dialogue rather than the proposed hardship protest, admitted that it is true that there was hunger and hardship in the country.
But, he quickly pointed out that the hunger and hardship did not just start today, saying that President Bola Tinubu was working hard to revamp the economy with well thought-out policies and programmes in addressing the issues of the economy and security, which are the bases of other problems in the country.
“I am aware of Mr President’s efforts to get things right in the country, and truly things are getting better. For instance, there is great improvement in the oil and gas sector in the last one year, which is still the main source of our economy.
“I am aware of the right of the citizenry to protest government policies and programmes in any country. It is one sure way for the citizens to participate effectively in governance, by checking the excesses of any government”.
“However, the organizers of this proposed hardship protest must know that the timing is wrong, and the protest may cause more harm and good, as security reports have indicated that the protest will be hijacked by unscrupulous elements.
“It is against this background, that I have joined other Patriotic Nigerians to appeal to prospective protesters to call off the proposed protest and engage governments at all levels to find lasting solutions to the country’s problems’.
“You must agree with me that the threat for protest only, has achieved its aim, as Mr President has said it loud and clear, that he has heard the voice of prospective protesters. Afterall, it is better to jaw jaw than to war war,” Tompolo stated.
