…Urges Citizens, Security Agencies to be Civil
The leadership of the Social Democratic Party (SDP) has endorsed the proposed nationwide protest against hardship in the country, describing it as timely in the interest of the Nigerian masses.
Speaking with newsmen in Abuja on Wednesday, the national chairman of the party, Shehu Musa Gabam, called on the citizens to do so peacefully so as to avoid being highjacked.
Gabam, while expressing total support for the protest urged security agencies to be civil in responding to the yearnings of Nigerians saying that the struggle for a better Nigeria “Is the responsibility of all irrespective of political differences and dispositions”.
According to him, “To the citizens of Nigeria. SDP appeals to every citizen coming out to ventilate their displeasure in the rallies to do so peacefully.
“Being conscious of the fact that we have no other country except Nigeria. we in the Social Democratic Party support the protest, We also call on all security agencies to be civil in responding to the yearnings and concerns of millions of Nigerians.
“They must stay aware that the protesters are their brothers and sisters not enemies of the state. We believe in the welfare and the future of the country.
“Security agents must remember that we share the same markets, hospitals, and the burden of school fees, bills and other groceries which means the same burden of responsibility by implication.
“The struggle for a better Nigeria is the responsibility of all irrespective of our political differences and dispositions.”
The SDP chairman said the party would continue to call on the government to stand with the people and fight for a better Nigeria where everyone has access to opportunities, justice and prosperity.
According to him, “We support this rally and its demand for improved economic policies that benefit all Nigerians not just a select few; increased investment in education, healthcare and infrastructure; massive investment in the agricultural sector that would increase food production and farming methods; provision of a more comprehensive healthcare plan that caters to the needs of unique and multilayers of the country; and an end to corruption and impunity. respect for human rights and the rule of law.
“We urge the government to listen to the voices of its citizens and take concrete steps to address our grievances”