Tinubu to protesters: The economy is recovering… don’t block its oxygen

President Bola Tinubu has appealed to protesters not to “shut out” the oxygen of the country’s economy.

The president said he understands that the nationwide protests are driven by economic hardship.

Speaking in a televised address on Sunday, the president said the economy is on its way to full recovery.

Tinubu acknowledged the demands of the protesters, saying he understands their “pain and frustration”.

The president said he has heard the youths “loud and clear”, adding that the federal government is “committed to listening and addressing” their concerns.

“But we must not let violence and destruction tear our nation apart. We must work together to build a brighter future, where every Nigerian can live with dignity and prosperity,” Tinubu said.

“The task before us is a collective one, and I am leading the charge as your president. A lot of work has gone into stabilising our economy and I must stay focused on ensuring that the benefits reach every single Nigerian as promised.

“My administration is working very hard to improve and expand our national infrastructure and create more opportunities for our young people.

“Let nobody misinform and miseducate you about your country or tell you that your government does not care about you. Although there have been many dashed hopes in the past, we are in a new era of Renewed Hope. We are working hard for you, and the results will soon be visible and concrete for everyone to see, feel, and enjoy.

“Let us work together to build a brighter future for ourselves and for generations to come. Let us choose hope over fear, unity over division, and progress over stagnation. The economy is recovering; Please, don’t shut out its oxygen. Now that we have been enjoying democratic governance for 25 years, do not let the enemies of democracy use you to promote an unconstitutional agenda that will set us back on our democratic journey.”

The nationwide protests, tagged #EndBadGovernance and ‘hunger protest’, is now in its fourth day.

Although the protest witnessed significant turnout in several parts of the country on the first day, the number dropped on Day 2 and further declined on the third day.

In some northern states, the protest was marred by violence, looting, and destruction of public and private properties — while in the south, demonstrations have been largely peaceful.

The protest is billed to take place from August 1 to 10.