Accord Party: Protest has put government under pressure to be more accountable

The Accord Party (AP) says the #EndbadGovernance protest that started on Thursday has put the government under pressure to be more accountable.

In a statement on Thursday, Maxwell Mgbedum, the national chairman of AP, said the demonstration reflected the “voice and will of Nigerians”.

Mgbedum noted that the protest has sparked political engagement, unity, and solidarity by citizens, which will drive positive change in the country.

“The #EndBadGovernance protest has sparked a remarkable level of awareness among Nigerians,” the statement reads.

“Citizens from all walks of life are now more informed about governance issues, leading to a heightened sense of political engagement and responsibility. This is a crucial step towards a more participatory democracy.

“The protest has put pressure on government officials and institutions to be more accountable and transparent.

“The demand for better governance has led to increased scrutiny of public offices, encouraging officials to act in the best interest of the people.”

He expressed concerns over the disruption of businesses, security breach, and polarisation caused by the protest.

He urged the government, stakeholders, civil society organisations and citizens to engage in constructive dialogue and work together for a better Nigeria.

“As with any large-scale protest, there have been disruptions to daily activities and business operations,” Mgbedum said.

“This has led to economic losses and inconveniences for many citizens. While the cause is just, it is essential to manage these disruptions to minimize their impact on the populace.

“I call on all stakeholders—government, civil society, and citizens—to engage in constructive dialogue and work together towards a brighter future.

“Let this protest be a catalyst for meaningful change and let us ensure that the sacrifices made today lead to a better tomorrow.”