Presidency: We’re absolutely not against anyone who wants to protest

The Nigerian Presidency has said it will not stop anyone from protesting and airing their grievances as long it is done in a lawful manner.

Laolu Akande, senior special assistant (media & publicity) to the vice president, said the government was fully aware of the right of Nigerians to have freedom of assembly.

Akande said this in reaction to the much-publicised One Voice Nigeria march organised by Enough is Enough and 2face Foundation.

The vice president’s spokesperson made the government’s position known on Friday while speaking on Sunrise Daily, on Channels TV.

He said: “Government is not in the business of countering any protest, particularly the Buhari presidency.

“We are very much aware of the rights of the people and we want to protect the right of the people. That is the business of the government.

“People have the right to have lawful assembly and protest. We are absolutely not against anyone who wants to exercise their rights to freedom of assembly and express whatever grievances they have in a lawful way.”

Hours later, the Twitter platform of the presidency put out a message on Twitter echoing Akande’s words.

“Please note that the Federal Government fully upholds the constitutional right of Nigerians to peaceful assembly and association,” the tweet read.

Please note that the Federal Government fully upholds the constitutional right of Nigerians to peaceful assembly and association.

— Govt of Nigeria (@AsoRock) February 3, 2017

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The One Voice Nigeria protest will take place on Monday, February 6.