Governor Umar Namadi of Jigawa State has urged Nigerians to turn to God and seek divine intervention to address the country’s economic challenges, rather than resorting to protests.
He made this statement at a town hall meeting with 27 groups in Dutse, including the Nigeria Labour Congress, Christian Association of Nigeria, and National Association of Nigerian Students, who all disassociated themselves from the planned nationwide protest on August 1.
The governor acknowledged the economic hardship but emphasized that protests are not the most effective way to address the problems. He highlighted the government’s effort to provide food items, materials, and cash distribution to cushion the effects of the hardship.
The Police Commissioner in Jigawa, Mr. Tijjani Abdullahi, warned those planning to participate in the protest to reconsider, stating that security agencies are ready to maintain public peace and order.
Traditional rulers and religious leaders in the state also echoed the governor’s sentiments, calling for peaceful coexistence and seeking alternative channels to express grievances.