The Senator representing the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Ireti Kingibe, has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to promptly develop and implement strategies to address the genuine grievances of protesting Nigerians.
She emphasised the need for the President and the federal government to engage in constructive dialogue with representatives of the protesters, civil society organizations, and other relevant stakeholders to effectively resolve their concerns.
Senator Kingibe gave the advice in a statement she personally signed on Sunday and made available to newsmen in Abuja extended her “heartfelt condolences to those who have lost loved ones during these demonstrations.”
Ireti Kingibe noted that the protests turned violent, resulting in the tragic loss of over 20 innocent Nigerian lives, as security forces opened fire on both protesters and bystanders, including children.
Furthermore, journalists were also targeted, with many suffering injuries, their vehicles damaged by gunfire, and some detained and taken to unknown locations, she said.
While consoling the “families affected by this tragedy” and wishing the injured persons quick and full recovery, the senator noted that “the loss of lives and suffering are deeply saddening, and it is crucial that we acknowledge and address these painful realities.”
She also expressed deep concern about the excessive use of force by the police and other security agencies against peaceful protesters.
Such actions, she said, are counterproductive and do not contribute to resolving the issues at hand.
She emphasised that “it is expedient and instructive for the federal government to adopt a more empathetic and dialogue-driven approach to sensitive matters”.
The senator noted that the demands of the protesters, including a call for a corruption-free fuel subsidy and improved leadership, are both urgent and important.
“These demands reflect the widespread frustration felt by many Nigerians, including myself,” she stated.
She stressed that “it is essential for President Bola Tinubu and the federal government to engage meaningfully with representatives of the protesters, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to address these concerns.
“We must remember that it is the people who put us in office, and it is our duty as public servants to listen and act on their concerns. The voice of the people is indeed the voice of God, and their demands needs serious consideration,” She added
The FCT senator assured the residents of the capital territory that she will remain a steadfast advocate for their needs and concerns in the Senate.
“I commend you for the peaceful manner in which you have conducted yourselves during these protests and thank you for your resilience and civility.
“Together, let us work towards solutions that address the issues at hand and bring about the positive change we all seek,” Kingibe added.
