Peter Obi supports a national protest in response to hardship, but Alex Otti disagrees, showing a divide in opinion.
Peter Obi, the Presidential candidate for the Labour Party in the 2023 election, and Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State have shared their thoughts on Nigerians’ scheduled protest against anticipated hardship from August 1st.
After a breakfast meeting held at Otti’s country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South LGA on Sunday, the two leaders who spoke to the press emphasized that any protests must comply with legal boundaries.
Gov. Otti expressed concern that the demonstrations may be commandeered by individuals with no loyalty to their country, who could exacerbate the unrest beyond its intended purpose. “We’ve witnessed protests being usurped before,” he stated, adding that his apprehension is likewise applicable in this case.”
According to him, joining the protests could result in more harm than good, and therefore advised Abia locals against participating.
Penning a letter itself can be an act of protest. Whether it’s crafting a written statement to voice your dissent or reaching out directly with a phone call, these forms of expression are permissible avenues for demonstrating disapproval towards an individual and their governing actions. However, if one chooses to disregard lawful measures and instead instigate chaos through acts of violence, this behavior crosses the line into unacceptability territory.
Governor Otti clarified that denying freedom to those not participating in the protest would go against the law, and hence they too have their right to be entitled.
The Governor of Abia acknowledged that the country is currently experiencing hunger due to a poor economy, while expressing regret over Nigerians bearing the brunt of years of bad governance.
Governor Otti stressed the significance of Nigeria’s shift towards a productive economy and reducing our import dependence for daily consumption.
Mr. Peter Obi attributed the proposed protest to hunger and despair among Nigerians. He acknowledged that according to Nigerian laws, protests are permitted, but urged protesters to conduct themselves in a lawful and peaceful manner so as to demonstrate our adherence to the rule of law as a nation.
According to Mr. Obi, it is common knowledge that life has become challenging for many people and he believes the root cause of protest sponsorship is hunger and despair among young individuals. He emphasizes that everyone should pay attention to Nigerians’ struggles, and expresses his appreciation towards the Governor’s efforts in doing so as crucial and significant.
Mr Obi urged the security agencies to handle the protests in accordance with legal regulations while suggesting that the government initiate dialogue with protesters so as to address their concerns and underlying motives.
