In a recent statement, Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has attributed the widespread anger and hunger across the country as the main reason for the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1.
Makinde made this declaration while speaking at the grand finale of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Week, organized by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).
According to reports, the protest has been planned as a response to the growing hardship and economic challenges faced by Nigerians across the country.
While addressing the audience at the event held on Saturday at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, the state capital, Governor Makinde acknowledged the people's right to protest. However, he cautioned the protesters against resorting to violence or the destruction of public facilities.
"Yes, protest is everybody's right," Makinde said. "But remember that we used your money to build all the structures and facilities we have put in place in this state, not mine. So, if you want to protest, it must be peaceful. If you begin your protest, don't destroy government properties, otherwise, we will have to use the money we are supposed to spend on meaningful projects to replace facilities that may get destroyed."
The governor further stressed that Nigeria could be experiencing a challenging situation due to the prevailing anger and hunger in the land, which is the driving force behind the planned protest.