Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State has attributed the planned nationwide protest to the prevalent anger and hunger experienced across the country.

This statement came during his address at the grand finale of the 2024 Ibadan Cultural Week, an event organized by the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).

Speaking at the Obafemi Awolowo Stadium in Ibadan, Makinde acknowledged that the widespread discontent and economic hardship are significant reasons behind the planned protest.

Makinde emphasized that while Nigerians have the right to voice their grievances through protests, these demonstrations must be conducted peacefully.

He stressed the importance of not resorting to violence or vandalism. “People have every right to protest, given the current situation of widespread anger and hunger.

However, it is vital that any protest remains peaceful and does not involve the destruction of public property,” he stated.

He reminded the public that government infrastructure, built with taxpayer funds, should be preserved.

“These structures and facilities are funded by public resources, not by me. Thus, if protests lead to the damage of government property, we would be forced to redirect funds from important projects to repair the damages. This would ultimately detract from the progress we aim to make for the people.”

Makinde’s call for peaceful protest underscores the importance of addressing grievances without compromising public resources and infrastructure.