Ifeanyi Ararume: Planned protest needless — government addressing economic hardship

Ifeanyi Ararume, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), says Nigerians should dialogue with government instead of embarking on a nationwide protest.

The protest over economic hardship has been billed to commence on August 1.

The former senator said government is committed to addressing the hardship and urged Nigerians to be patient.

“Since government is already taking steps toward addressing the public concerns, embarking on public space protests becomes needless,” NAN quoted him as saying.

“Protests will have been well advised had the government ignored reports about planned nationwide anti-economic hardship protests.

“Our unity must be preserved. Our harmony must be strengthened while our economy must be bolstered.”

He said those behind the protest should allow labour unions, the national assembly, traditional rulers, religious leaders and non-state actors to engage with government.

“The fact that government has taken a number of steps to avert the protests is a clear indication that the government is well apprised of the pains, the complaints and the angst of the citizens,” he added.

“I believe genuine steps are being taken to address the contending issues that have made the economic condition difficult for the vast majority of Nigerians.”