The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, has appealed to those planning the nationwide protest from August 1st to 10th, 2024, to reconsider in the interest of the country.
Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation, acknowledged the hunger and hardship in the land but emphasized that President Tinubu and his team are actively addressing the people’s concerns.
In a statement he signed on Friday, Tompolo expressed his appeal, joining the National Security Adviser, governors, top traditional rulers, and others in urging restraint ahead of the protest.
He called on Nigerians to be patient with the President, noting that the current economic hardship did not start with the Tinubu administration. Tompolo highlighted that Tinubu is working diligently to revive the economy through well-thought-out policies and programs.
He pointed to comprehensive measures being implemented to tackle the nation’s economic and security challenges, which are interconnected with the broader issues the country faces.
Tompolo also emphasized that the timing of the planned protest could be detrimental to national interests, as security reports have indicated a high likelihood of the protests being hijacked by individuals with ulterior motives.
He said that; “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 a great improvement in the oil and gas sector in the last one year, which is still the mainstay 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 planned protest against hardship 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, alone has achieved its aim, as Mr President has said it loud and clear, that he has heard the voice of prospective protesters.”
