- Senate President Godswill Akpabio cautions against destabilizing protests.
- Commends President Tinubu for signing the Minimum Wage Bill into law.
- House of Representatives Speaker Abass applauds the President's care for the people.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio has issued a warning to those organizing the proposed August 1st nationwide hunger protest, emphasizing that while the right to protest is constitutionally protected, it does not extend to destabilizing the country.
Speaking to State House Correspondents after President Bola Tinubu signed the Minimum Wage Bill into law at the Presidential Villa on Monday, Akpabio stressed the importance of maintaining stability.
I want to use this opportunity to call on those attempting to foment trouble; you have a right to protest. It is your fundamental right. It is there in the constitution. But you don’t have a right to destabilize the country," Akpabio stated. "The right to protest should not be turned into the right to unleash violence.
He expressed concerns about the potential for violence and looting, noting that those behind the unrest are often faceless and have ulterior motives.
Akpabio praised President Tinubu for his swift action in signing the Minimum Wage Bill into law, which increases the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000 and reduces the negotiation period from five to three years.
Where we are today was not caused by one year’s administration. It is the outcome of years of insecurity. Many people could not go to farms for almost 10 years," Akpabio noted, highlighting the President's efforts to address food security and economic stability. "There are no restrictions, bring in food because Nigerians need to eat. And at the same time, most things are coming in with a lot of waivers. So for me, I’m excited that the government is doing what it should.
Addressing the youth, Akpabio urged them not to be misled by groups with political motives, warning that any destruction of property would only cost the country money that could be better spent on development.
So my appeal to the Nigerian youth is do not allow any group to mislead you politically. People who probably do not have their fortunes in the 2023 election are thinking they can come through the back door, and that will amount to anarchy.
Speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abass, represented by the House Leader, Hon. (Prof.) Julius Ihonvbere, also praised the President's actions, stating that the move from N30,000 to N70,000 minimum wage and the establishment of various regional development commissions demonstrate a commitment to improving the lives of Nigerians.
This is an action from the President to show that he cares about the Nigerian people," Ihonvbere said. "This movement from N30,000 to N70,000 and reducing the negotiation period is a clear demonstration of a commitment to redirect, refocus, and reposition Nigeria for greatness.
The Senate has made significant progress on the money bill, and Akpabio expects it to be signed by Wednesday, further solidifying the government's commitment to economic and social development.
