On August 1, Hope Uzodinma, Governor of Imo State and Chairman of the Southeast Governors Forum expressed concerns about the proposed nationwide protest against President Bola Tinubu. Uzodinma cautioned that initiating a strike at this time might be premature and could potentially be exploited like the EndSARS protest.

During a press briefing after a meeting with President Tinubu, former Senate President Pius Anyim, and Ebonyi State Governor Francis Nwifuru at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, Uzodinma emphasized that while democratic societies permit protests, such actions should be well-timed and purposefully planned to have a meaningful impact.

He argued that the current political environment, characterized by global uncertainties and domestic security challenges, necessitates a cautious approach to public demonstrations.

Uzodinma further questioned the motivations behind the protest, suggesting that those organizing it had yet to clearly articulate their reasons. He expressed concern that without a clear and justifiable cause, the protest could destabilize the fragile political climate and potentially lead to undesirable consequences.

The Governor highlighted that the EndSARS protests had been marred by criminal elements that took advantage of the situation, leading to significant unrest. He warned that a similar fate could befall the current protest if not carefully managed.

In his view, now might not be the right time for such demonstrations, urging Nigerians to consider the potential repercussions and work towards safeguarding the nation’s stability.