The Chairman of Tantita Security Services Nigeria Limited, High Chief Government Ekpemupolo, also known as Tompolo, has urged those planning a nationwide protest from August 1st to 10th, 2024, to reconsider their decision for the sake of the country. Tompolo, the Ibe-Ebidouwei of Ijaw Nation, acknowledged the prevailing hunger and hardship but emphasized that President Tinubu and his team are actively addressing the people’s pressing concerns.
In a statement he signed on Friday, Tompolo’s appeal echoed similar sentiments from the National Security Adviser, governors, and top traditional rulers who have also spoken out in the days leading up to the protest. He called on Nigerians to be more patient with the President, noting that the economic difficulties predate Tinubu’s administration.
Tompolo highlighted the comprehensive measures being implemented to tackle the nation’s economic and security issues, which are intertwined with the current challenges. He warned that the timing of the planned protest is not in the nation’s best interest, as security reports indicate it could be hijacked by individuals with ulterior motives.
“I am aware of Mr. President’s efforts to rectify the country’s issues, and indeed, there have been improvements. For example, the oil and gas sector, our economy’s mainstay, has seen significant progress over the past year,” Tompolo remarked.
He acknowledged the citizens’ right to protest government policies, recognizing it as a crucial aspect of governance that helps check governmental excesses. However, he cautioned that the timing of this particular protest could cause more harm than good, given the risk of it being co-opted by malicious actors.
Given these concerns, Tompolo joined other patriotic Nigerians in appealing to the organizers to call off the protest and instead engage with the government to find lasting solutions to the nation’s problems. “The mere threat of protest has already served its purpose, as Mr. President has acknowledged the concerns of the potential protesters,” he concluded.
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