ABIA State governor, Dr Alex Otti and the Labour Party (LP) presidential candidate during last year’s general elections, Mr Peter Obi have expressed divergent views regarding the planned #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria (otherwise known as Hunger Protest) billed to commence on Thursday.1st August 2024.
During a recent visit to Governor Otti at his country home in Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area, Obi expressed his support for the planned protest.
The former Anambra State governor stated in an interview with newsmen that citizens have the constitutional right to protest, citing hunger and hopelessness as driving forces for the agitation. He, however, stressed that protests should remain lawful.
But in a swift response, Governor Otti, the only governor elected on the platform of the Labour Party, countered Mr Obi’s view, asserting that the governance issues currently plaguing the people began long before the present administration.
He underscored the necessity of obtaining police approval for any protest, noting that organising a demonstration without such consent was illegal.
According to the governor, “It would be disingenuous to claim that times are not tough right now. While it is true that we face significant challenges, we must consider how to address them. The economic difficulties we endure are a consequence of longstanding poor governance.
“Initially, the law requires that anyone organising a protest secures approval from security agencies, especially the police. It is essential to designate someone to take responsibility for obtaining that approval.
“Without it, any attempt to protest would violate the law. I urge people to reflect on the consequences of taking to the streets, as it may restrict movement for others and exacerbate their hardships.
“To the people of Abia, my advice is to refrain from protesting in the streets, as it may ultimately cause more harm than the issues we are aiming to address.”
Eighteen-Eleven Media