Nigerian Politician Raises Concerns Over Safety of People with Disabilities Amid Nationwide Protest
Tolu Bankole, a member of the All Progressives Congress National Working Committee, has expressed concerns over the safety of people with disabilities ahead of the planned nationwide protest, #EndBadGovernance, scheduled to take place from August 1 to 15.
In a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday, Bankole, who is responsible for attending to people with disabilities (PWDs), pleaded with both the protest organizers and the Federal Government to exercise restraint and embrace dialogue. He appealed to Nigerian youths to jettison the idea of mass action and consider the fate of PWDs who may be stranded as a result of the protest.
The #EndBadGovernance demonstration was sparked by the soaring cost of living and economic hardship in the country. Several youths have indicated interest in participating in the exercise, which has generated tension and mixed reactions from Nigerians.
Bankole emphasized that the risk of the demonstration being hijacked and spiraling into violence is significant, and urged all stakeholders to prioritize constructive dialogue with government officials to avoid a repetition of the unfortunate violence witnessed during the EndSARS movement.
He highlighted that PWDs are among the most vulnerable in society and any violence or disruption from protests could have disproportionately adverse effects on them. Bankole advocated for peaceful methods of engagement to ensure their safety and well-being.
President Bola Tinubu has implemented several policies aimed at revitalizing the economy and improving the standard of living for all Nigerians. Bankole called on all stakeholders to channel their energies into meaningful dialogue and collaboration with the government, rather than risking escalation into violence.
Together, we can work towards positive change while safeguarding the rights and lives of every Nigerian.
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