The Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate in the 2023 election, Peter Obi, has affirmed that protest is permitted within the Nigerian Constitution.
According to Plateau News, Peter Obi made this statement in light of the proposed nationwide protest scheduled by some Nigerian youths from August 1-10, in response to the current economic situation in the country.
In an interview with Channels TV following a visit to Abia State Governor Alex Otti on Sunday, the former Governor of Anambra State urged protesters to demonstrate peacefully and within the law.
Peter Obi remarked that ‘hunger and hopelessness’ are driving the August protest.
He said, “Protest is allowed within the Nigerian Constitution. All I plead is for those who are protesting to do so within the law and in a civil manner that shows we live within the law as a nation.
Everybody knows that things are difficult. When they talk about the sponsors of the protest, I say the sponsors are very simple: hunger and hopelessness among the youths. So we all have to listen to what Nigerians are going through.”
Peter Obi also called on security agencies to handle the situation lawfully and avoid being overbearing. He added, “To the security agencies, I will say ensure that you manage the situation within the law.
We should not try to be overbearing. Protest is allowed everywhere globally. Listen to the reason why people are protesting, engage and talk with them; that is what governance is all about.”