President Bola Tinubu is currently presiding over an emergency security council meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, as nationwide protests continue to escalate.
Despite his call over the weekend for protesters to suspend further actions and engage in dialogue, demonstrations have intensified, leading to looting and destruction in several areas, including Kaduna State.
In his speech on Sunday, President Tinubu emphasized the government's unwavering commitment to maintaining public order and safeguarding the lives and property of all citizens.
"Threats and ethnic bigotry will not be tolerated," he declared, showing the administration's stance against violence. Acknowledging the turmoil and loss of lives resulting from the violent protests, he called for an immediate end to the unrest.
The meeting, convened under the auspices of the National Security Council, includes key security officials such as the Chief of Defense Staff, General Christopher Musa, the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun and other service chiefs. Vice President Kashim Shettima, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila and the national security adviser are also in attendance.
Sources close to the matter suggest that the urgent meeting with security chiefs is directly related to the ongoing nationwide hunger and hardship protests. Reports indicate that Nigerians, mostly youths, are regrouping across the country for the fifth day of the #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria protests.
President Tinubu had previously called for dialogue, affirming that his administration is ready to listen to and address the protesters’ concerns. "I have heard your calls loud and clear," he stated, urging for a peaceful resolution.
However, the protests have continued unabated in major cities, including Lagos, Abuja, Kaduna and Kano, among others.
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