Former Niger Delta militant leader, Chief Oweizide Government Ekpemupolo, popularly known as Tompolo, has urged Nigerians to cancel the planned nationwide hardship protest, arguing that hunger is not a valid excuse for the demonstration.
He asserts that the economic challenges did not originate under President Bola Tinubu’s administration and believes conditions are improving due to Tinubu’s efforts.
In a statement made available to Daily Trust in Delta State on Monday, Tompolo insisted that holding the protest could be detrimental to the economy.
“I therefore wish to add my voice to that of many well-meaning Nigerians, including our revered traditional rulers, on this call to shelve the proposed hardship protest billed to begin on the 1st of August, 2024,” he said.
Tompolo acknowledged the President’s efforts to revitalize the economy, particularly in the oil and gas sector, noting significant improvements over the past year.
“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.”
While recognizing the citizens’ right to protest, Tompolo cautioned against ill-timed demonstrations that could hinder progress.
“But protests have also been known to halt progress, when they are ill-timed. When things are beginning to be done right, what is often needed is patience. However, the organizers of this proposed hardship protest must know that the timing is wrong, and the protest may cause more harm than good to the economy and security as security reports have indicated that the protest will be hijacked by unscrupulous elements.”
He appealed to potential protesters to call off the demonstration and engage in dialogue with the government to find lasting solutions.
“You must agree with me that after every protest it is the dialogue that follows that yields fruits, not the protest itself. I may also add that the current threat of protest has actually achieved its aim, as Mr. President has said it loud and clear that he has heard the voice of prospective protesters. Let us all engage in dialogue.”
