During a recent Arise News interview at 8:15, Chief Bode George, a venerable elder statesman, conveyed his perspective on the upcoming nationwide protests in Nigeria. He highlighted the necessity of allowing citizens to freely express their grievances against the government as a fundamental right.
Chief George compared Nigeria to Kenya, suggesting that Nigeria, as a more civilized nation, should manage protests more thoughtfully. He warned the government and its agencies against silencing citizens and called for a more restrained approach.
The elder statesman’s message is straightforward: the government should heed citizens’ feedback and address their grievances. He urged the authorities to handle protests with restraint, avoiding force or violence. Instead, he advised isolating and arresting those who engage in violence, while allowing peaceful protesters to exercise their rights.
“I’m not suggesting we replicate what happened in Kenya; Nigeria is more civilized than that. However, don’t stop people from exercising their fundamental rights to express their dissatisfaction as feedback. In my view, the government and all agencies should be cautious, but they shouldn’t resort to shooting at protesters. Instead, isolate and apprehend anyone who becomes violent,” he said.
NGI 
SKJ 
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