Concerns about the Port Harcourt refinery, power, and hunger topped the list for callers reacting to President Bola Tinubu’s response to the #EndBadGovernance nationwide protest.
In a national broadcast, the President called for an end to the protest, which is now on its fifth day, citing the loss of lives and properties in some parts of the country. He also mentioned that measures are being implemented to address the economic challenges facing Nigerians.
Protesters in some states took to the streets to express their frustration over the economic hardships in the country. Their demands include the reinstatement of petrol subsidies, affordable electricity tariffs, a reduction of import duties to previous rates, and greater transparency and accountability in governance.
“There is no connectivity between the President’s speech and what the protesters are demanding for”. said Darlington, a caller on Nigeria Info’s Morning Crossfire.
Darlington emphasised that Nigeria is rich in natural resources, and that should cater to the well-being of its citizens. He believes the protest should continue until the government addresses the issues raised.
Another caller, Temple, argued that the protest was justified. He explained that the President’s speech fell short of giving hope to the people amid the widespread hardship in the country.
Similarly, another caller, Ken, described the President’s address as disappointing. According to Ken, the speech did not address concerns about the functionality of Nigerian moribund refineries, power issues, or a clear strategy to solve the nation’s food crisis.
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