President Bola Tinubu is set to address the nation in a broadcast on Sunday, August 4, 2024, at 7:00 am, following days of nationwide protests against hunger and economic hardship.
The decision comes after mounting pressure from religious leaders, opposition parties, and citizens demanding government action to address the country’s deteriorating economic situation.
A statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Chief Ajuri Ngelale, confirmed that the broadcast would be aired on the network services of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) and the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN). The address will be repeated at 3:00 pm and 7:00 pm.
Prominent religious leaders, including the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’adu Abubakar III, and the President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Archbishop Daniel Okoh, had earlier called on President Tinubu to address citizens before the nationwide protests deteriorated further.
The protests, which began on Thursday, August 1, have led to incidents of violence and unrest across several states, including Kaduna, Nasarawa, Kano, and Abuja. Reports indicate that over 15 people have been killed, with dozens injured and arrested as security forces clashed with demonstrators.
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The Coalition of United Political Parties (CUPP) criticized President Tinubu’s leadership, describing it as “woeful” for his failure to address the nation earlier. The opposition group blamed the current crisis on the President’s “sidon-look” and “I-don’t-care” attitude towards the people’s grievances.
Similarly, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) expressed concerns over the President’s silence, stating that it sends a “dangerous signal” and heightens public apprehension. The PDP called on Tinubu to take immediate steps to reduce the price of petroleum products, stabilize the Naira, and ensure food security.
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The nation waits with bated breath for President Tinubu’s address, hoping for solutions to the pressing economic issues that have sparked widespread unrest.