By Princess Simon Bureau Chief North Central, in Minna)
Acting Governor of Niger state, Comrade Yakubu Garba has commended citizens for not participating in the, 1st-10th August, 2024 nationwide protest over the harsh economic realities causing severe hunger and frustrations with the hashtag, #EndBadGovernanceInNigeria and #EndHungerNow.
Comrade Garba in a statewide broadcast also assured both indigenes and non-indigene that the Governor Mohammed Umar Bago led administration is committed to their welfare and well-being and will act fast on the promise to sell assorted grains at a 50 percent discount as part of state government's efforts to cushion the effects of prevailing hardship.
"It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I stand before you today to express our heartfelt appreciation to all stakeholders and residents of Niger state for restraining yourselves from active participation in the recent protest and choosing the path of dialogue".
"Your commitment to the unity, mutual respect and constructive dialogue is not just commendable, but it is the very essence of our collective dedication to the progress and development of Niger state".
While acknowledging the fact that joining the protests would have cost the state lots of damages, Comrade Garba said, "You, the esteemed stakeholders and residents, are the driving force behind the progress of Niger state.
Yakubu Garba who was the immediate past chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) said, "I would like to extend our gratitude to the people, old and young, male and female; the leadership of National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Students Union Government (SUG), National Association of Niger State Students (NANISS)".
He commended other groups that heeded the state government's plea not to be part of the protest including; Artisan Association, Traditional Leaders, Imams Forum, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Vigilante Groups.
Others are; Road Transport Unions, Marketers Association, and other key stakeholders, adding that, "Your decision to honour your commitment and refrain from participating in the nationwide protest exemplifies your role as true partners in progress".
Garba who also commended journalists for not giving the protesters much publicity said the administration is always open for dialogue and understanding of stakeholders in resolving conflicts and advancing the development of our state instead of protests.
He commend secirity forces, including; the Police, Nigerian army and heads of other security agencies and the local vigilante groups for their support and relentless efforts and sacrifices that ensured that Nigerlites did not massively participate in the protests which claimed about ten lives in Suleja and the razing down of Tafa Locsl Government Secretariat.
He however said, "Let me reassure you that the Niger state government is not just willing but eager to convey your feelings, concerns, and aspirations to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Your voices matter, and we will ensure that they are heard and that your interests are represented at the national level.
"We will not hesitate to engage with the Federal government to address the challenges facing our state and nation", Garba said and urged all to continue to show understanding and maintain faith in the present administration.
The Bago led administration is committed to openness and accountability, willing to accept constructive criticisms. "We are determined to adopt innovative approaches towards governance, and we welcome constructive criticisms aimed at enhancing the overall development of Niger state". NNL.
