With less than 48 hours to the planned nationwide protest against high cost of living in Nigeria, President Bola Tinubu needs to urgently address the nation to reassure citizens of his commitment to their well-being.

Development Diaries reports that the voices of dissent continue to grow in Nigeria as citizens grapple with the rising cost of living, prompting a planned nationwide protest.

Africa’s most populous country is currently facing an acute cost of living crisis, with inflation soaring, leaving millions in a world of hunger and starvation.

Telling Nigerians that there is no need for the ten-day planned protests, from 01–10 August, against the rising cost of living was a faulty response to their demands.

The alleged attempt by security operatives to suppress peaceful protest sends a message of intolerance towards opposing views and a lack of commitment to engaging with citizens’ concerns.

It also risks eroding public trust in the institutions meant to safeguard democracy and protect the rights of the people, ultimately weakening the very fabric of the democratic system Nigeria seeks to honour.

Citizens plan to stage constitutionally guaranteed protests because they believe that the government does not appear to be taking sufficient action to address their suffering. At this time, President Tinubu and his communication handlers need to be empathetic in their response to aggrieved Nigerians.

Mr President should speak directly to the Nigerian people. He should not wait until demonstrations begin.

Development Diaries calls on President Tinubu to listen to the demands of Nigerians, and ensure that they are not denied their constitutionally and internationally guaranteed right to peaceful protest.

We also call on Nigerians planning to protest to ensure they do so responsibly as the government also has a responsibility to maintain law and order.

For security operatives, they have another opportunity to demonstrate respect for citizens’ right to protest by providing security for citizens involved in peaceful demonstrations.

Photo source: State House