Governor Zulum Urges Citizens to Avoid Protests Amid Hardships, Assures Relief Efforts

Borno State Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has called on citizens to refrain from protesting over the current economic hardships, emphasizing that the government is actively working to alleviate these challenges.

Speaking at a multi-stakeholder meeting at the Government House in Maiduguri on Wednesday, Zulum reassured attendees that the hike in food and commodity prices is a temporary situation.

Governor Zulum acknowledged the fundamental right to protest in a democracy but warned of the potential for such actions to be exploited by anarchists and enemies of peace. “These elements thrive on chaos and discord, seeking to derail our collective efforts and exploit our vulnerabilities,” he said. He cautioned that manipulation of protests could lead to violence, property destruction, and setbacks in the state’s progress.

He emphasized the temporary nature of the current hardships and expressed optimism for a prosperous future. “While this hardship exists today, we are also aware that the negative impacts are temporary. We will do whatever it takes, and we are doing whatever it takes and more, to protect the dignity, pride, and independence of our people,” Zulum assured. He highlighted the efforts of both state and federal governments in addressing issues such as food insecurity, unemployment, and healthcare.

Governor Zulum stressed that patience and collective effort are necessary for the measures being taken to yield results. “It is vital that we do not aggravate the situation or jeopardize the returning peace in our state. Any attempt to join the protest could have adverse consequences for the lives and property of our people,” he said. He urged stakeholders to consider the potential negative impacts of protests and focus on constructive ways to address challenges.

Addressing the youth, Governor Zulum recognized their crucial role in society and encouraged them to choose dialogue over protest. “Peaceful and constructive engagement is the cornerstone of sustainable development. Remember, the future we desire is built on the foundations we lay today. Let those foundations be solidly rooted in peace, dialogue, and mutual respect,” he advised.

Zulum also highlighted federal measures to combat food inflation and improve the availability of medicines, including the suspension of taxes, tariffs, and levies on food and drug imports. He urged citizens to reflect on the collective journey, the sacrifices made, and the progress achieved, and to recommit to principles of peace, dialogue, and mutual respect.

The meeting saw attendance from key figures including Deputy Governor Umar Usman Kadafur, Speaker of the Borno State House of Assembly Abdulkarim Lawan, Secretary to the State Government Bukar Tijani, and security leaders such as Major General Waidi Shuaibu and Commissioner of Police Yusuf Mohammed Lawal. The Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Elkanemi, religious leaders, and representatives from labor and trade unions also participated.

Governor Zulum concluded by appealing to the nation to avoid mass protests that could distract from finding solutions to social challenges, reinforcing the commitment to building a peaceful and prosperous future for Borno State and Nigeria.