Nigerian Senator Calls for Dialogue to Address Widespread Frustration
In the aftermath of the 10-day EndBadGovernance protest, Nigerian Senator Ireti Kingibe has urged the federal government to engage in meaningful dialogue with protesters, civil society organizations, and stakeholders to address the demands and concerns raised by citizens.
The protests, which took place across the country, resulted in several fatalities and injuries, and Senator Kingibe has expressed anger over the excessive force used by security agencies against peaceful demonstrators. In a statement released on Sunday, she called for a more empathetic and dialogue-driven approach to sensitive matters.
The demands of the protesters, including a call for a corruption-free fuel subsidy and improved leadership, are both urgent and important, Senator Kingibe said. She emphasized that these demands reflect the widespread frustration felt by many Nigerians, including herself.
Senator Kingibe’s statement comes as President Bola Tinubu and the federal government face mounting pressure to address the grievances of the Nigerian people. The senator acknowledged that it is the people who put them in office, and it is their duty as public servants to listen and act on their concerns.
The senator’s call for dialogue is seen as a significant step towards addressing the country’s deep-seated problems. Nigerians are hopeful that this new approach will lead to positive change and an end to the widespread hardship and poor governance that has plagued the country.
Senator Kingibe concluded her statement by commending the peaceful manner in which the protests were conducted and thanking the residents of the Federal Capital Territory for their resilience and civility. She reiterated her commitment to being a steadfast advocate for their needs and concerns in the Senate and pledged to work towards solutions that address the issues at hand and bring about positive change.
The voice of the people is indeed the voice of God, and their demands deserve serious consideration. It remains to be seen whether the federal government will heed Senator Kingibe’s call for dialogue and work towards a more inclusive and responsive governance system.
