The leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has publicly endorsed the planned nationwide protest against the prevailing economic hardship in Nigeria.
This announcement was made by the National Chairman of the SDP, Shehu Gabam, during a press conference held in Abuja on Wednesday.
Gabam expressed deep concern over the severe economic challenges faced by many Nigerians. He emphasized that the planned demonstration is in the interest of the masses who are struggling with the current economic conditions.
“The hardship that so many Nigerians are undergoing is undeniable, and as a party that stands with the people, we believe that this protest is necessary to draw attention to their plight,” Gabam stated.
The endorsement by the SDP comes just a week after the Chairman of the Progressives Governors’ Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, defended President Bola Tinubu against criticisms of the economic situation.
Uzodinma argued that the economic challenges, including inflation, are a global phenomenon and not the fault of the President alone.
Despite Uzodinma’s defence of the President, Gabam maintained that the protest is a legitimate response to the economic hardships faced by Nigerians.
He called on all protesters to conduct themselves peacefully to prevent the demonstration from being hijacked by disruptive elements.
Gabam said, “Being conscious that we have no other country except Nigeria, we in the Social Democratic Party support the protest. We also call on all security agencies to be civil in responding to the yearnings and concerns of millions of Nigerians.
“They must stay aware that the protesters are their brothers and sisters not enemies of the state. We believe in the welfare and the future of the country. They must also remember that we share the same markets, hospitals, burden of school fees, bills, and groceries by implication.
“The struggle for a better Nigeria is the responsibility of all irrespective of our political differences and dispositions.”
Continuing, the SDP chairman emphasised that the party would continue to call on the government to stand with the people and fight for a better country where everyone has access to opportunities, justice, and prosperity.
