The Forum of All Progressives Congress (APC) State Chairmen in Nigeria has issued a press briefing today 29th July 2024, at the Media Center of APC National Headquarters, urging organizers of the protest to reconsider the planned nationwide protest against the current economic challenges and support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to rebuild Nigeria.
Speaking on behalf of the forum, Hon. Cornelius Ojelabi, APC Chairman Lagos and Acting Chairman of the Forum, emphasized the potential risks associated with the protest, including violence, property damage, and further economic instability. He called for constructive dialogue and active participation in community forums as alternative means to address grievances.
“Fellow Nigerians, it is with the greatest respect to all Nigerians and a deep sense of patriotism and altruism that we deemed it necessary to address you and all Nigerians on the state of our nation,” Ojelabi stated. “We appreciate all Nigerians across party lines for voting our party and electing H.E. Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu GCFR as President. His administration has taken bold steps to revitalize the economy, despite the resulting hardships.”
The forum, including Hon. Austin Agada, APC Chairman Benue State, acknowledged the severe economic challenges, including rising food prices and the impact of the global economic meltdown. However, they praised President Tinubu’s efforts and urged patience, highlighting his Renewed Hope policies and programs aimed at providing sustainable economic prospects for all Nigerians.
Hon. Alphonsus Ogar Eba Esq, APC Chairman, Cross River State and Secretary of the Forum, reiterated the need for unity and support for the President’s administration. “Despite the present hardship, Mr. President’s tireless efforts towards revamping our economy are commendable. We share a collective feeling of the pain and assure you that the President is doing everything possible to alleviate our suffering.”
The forum raised concerns about the security intelligence report indicating that some unpatriotic individuals might hijack the protest to perpetrate violence, akin to the 2020 EndSARS protests and recent events in Kenya. They warned that such actions could worsen the nation’s challenges and shift the protest’s focus from economic concerns to an unconstitutional regime change agenda.
“As a ruling party, we are prepared to meet every contestant in 2027,” Ojelabi stated. “However, allowing undemocratic forces to undermine our government would be a disservice to Nigerians who freely gave us this mandate. We must protect this mandate and our democracy.”
The forum highlighted several of President Tinubu’s initiatives, including the student loan scheme, consumer credit scheme, minimum wage increase, and various infrastructural projects. They assured Nigerians that these efforts would soon yield positive results for the economy.
The forum announced a solidarity rally across all political wards, LGAs, and state capitals, including Abuja FCT, to support President Tinubu’s programs and defend democracy. They called on security agencies to be proactive in maintaining peace and order.
