Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The House of Representatives on Thursday, begged Nigerians not to protest against President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the economic hardship in the country.
This is as the lawmakers resolved to slash their salaries by half for six months to demonstrate their concern over the plight of the masses as a result of the biting economy.
The lawmakers also said their decision to cut their salaries was to support food sufficiency across the country.
Meanwhile, the House has mandated its Committee on Appropriation, Humanitarian affairs, Finance and Budget to ensure compliance.
The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion moved on the floor of the House by Hon. Ibrahim Isiaka (APC Ogun State).
The resolution was entitled, ‘An appeal to the proponents of proposed nationwide protest to maintain peace, eschew violence and open the windows for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels in order to address their issues.’
While moving the motion, the lawmaker said “although Nigerians have the constitutional right to peaceful assembly and protest to address their grievances, the house presents with a humble plea, a plea for reason, understanding, and unity in the face of adversity.”
According to him, maintaining peace and engaging in constructive dialogue with the government is crucial for the resolution of issues facing the nation.
“This honourable House appeals to the proponents of the proposed nationwide protest in Nigeria to consider a different path, a path of patience, dialogue, and collaboration, prioritise peace and open channels for meaningful engagements with the government at all levels.
“All stakeholders should uphold the principles of democracy, respect human rights, and uphold the rule of law in their actions and engagements; we trust that through peaceful engagement and dialogue, we can collectively work towards building a better and brighter future for Nigeria.”
