Akpabio responds to planned nationwide protest

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has downplayed the impact of upcoming nationwide protests, stating that while people are free to demonstrate, government officials will continue with their duties.

Akpabio made these remarks during an event organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Tuesday in Rivers State.

The protests, scheduled for August, are a response to rising inflation and the worst cost of living crisis Nigeria has faced in decades.

Some members of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and politicians in the southwest have criticized the planned demonstrations, describing them as a potential threat to the administration of President Bola Tinubu.

Addressing the gathering, Akpabio emphasized that his focus is not on “regime change” but on supporting the current government through the difficult economic period. “All of us feel the impact of what is happening now. But we are aware it will be for a short while,” Akpabio said.

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He continued, “MD, I want to thank you for what you said. You said we are not interested in regime change, let us own this government. Those who want to protest can protest, but let us be there eating — I must thank the Niger Delta.”

Akpabio also acknowledged the damage caused by oil and gas activities in the Niger Delta region, and assured that the national assembly is prepared to support legislation aimed at curbing oil spills and environmental pollution.

“The specific issues faced by the Niger Delta must be contained in that communique because we are going to make it available to Mr. President,” Akpabio stated.

“The ones that need legislation will come to us, the ones that need intervention will go to NDDC, the ones that need more money will go to the president and commander-in-chief, and I assure you that those issues will be addressed.”