A disagreement has emerged between Peter Obi, former Governor of Anambra State, and Alex Otti, Governor of Abia State, regarding the planned nationwide hardship protest scheduled for August 1st to 10th. Obi attributes the protest to widespread hunger and youth unemployment, advocating for peaceful demonstrations and emphasizing the constitutional right to protest. In contrast, Otti stresses the need for proper authorization from security agencies, warning of potential chaos and illegality associated with unauthorized protests.
In a video shared by Channels Television, Obi highlighted the importance of lawful demonstrations, emphasizing that hunger and unemployment are the primary drivers behind the protest. He urged security agencies to act within the law and respect citizens’ constitutional rights. Governor Otti acknowledged the harsh economic conditions but emphasized the need for legal procedures in organizing protests, warning that protests without security approval, particularly from the police, would be illegal and potentially dangerous. He advised residents of Abia State to stay home to maintain peace.
The disagreement has sparked a debate on social media, with some Nigerians supporting Obi’s stance on the constitutional right to protest and others agreeing with Otti’s emphasis on legal authorization and potential risks.
SKJ