In a somber address to the nation on Sunday, President Bola Tinubu expressed deep concern and sorrow over the loss of lives and destruction of property during the #EndBadGovernance protests. He lamented the violence that erupted in several states, including Borno, Jigawa, Kano, and Kaduna, which resulted in the loss of precious lives and widespread destruction of public facilities and private properties.
The President commiserated with the families of the victims and emphasized the need to halt further bloodshed, violence, and destruction. He reiterated his commitment to maintaining public order and upholding his constitutional oath to protect the lives and property of all citizens.
President Tinubu also warned that the government will not tolerate a small group with a clear political agenda attempting to destabilize the nation. He assured Nigerians that his administration will take decisive action to restore peace and stability, while also addressing the grievances of the protesters.
The speech reads, “I am especially pained by the loss of lives in Borno, Jigawa, Kano, Kaduna and other states, the destruction of public facilities in some states, and the wanton looting of supermarkets and shops, contrary to the promise of protest organisers that the protest would be peaceful across the country. The destruction of properties sets us back as a nation, as scarce resources will be again used to restore them.
“I commiserate with the families and relations of those who have died in the protests. We must stop further bloodshed, violence and destruction.
“As President of this country, I must ensure public order. In line with my constitutional oath to protect the lives and property of every citizen, our government will not stand idly by and allow a few with a clear political agenda to tear this nation apart.”
The President’s speech comes as the country grapples with the aftermath of the violent protests, which exposed deep-seated tensions and frustrations among Nigerians. As the nation mourns the loss of lives and property, President Tinubu’s message serves as a call to unity and a reminder of the government’s responsibility to protect its citizens.
