The Presidency has accused cabals and adversaries of Nigeria who oppose President Bola Tinubu’s progressive and youth-focused policies of instigating tomorrow’s planned protest.
Special Adviser to the President on Student Engagement, Sunday Asefon, made this statement on Wednesday in Abuja during a town hall meeting organized by Mr. Osahon Okunbo, Chairman of Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments.
Asefon suggested that the protest is being driven by those unsettled by the advancements made under Tinubu’s administration. He stated: “These critics are accustomed to a system where appointments are made based on age, but President Tinubu has introduced young leaders and policies that conflict with their interests.”
He highlighted Tinubu’s achievements, particularly in the education sector, saying: “No previous president has accomplished what President Tinubu has in just one year.”
Asefon praised Tinubu for implementing student loans, resolving long-standing disputes between the federal government and lecturers, and enacting policies beneficial to young people.
Read Also: Governor Diri Pre Season Tourney Gets Underway In Yenagoa
He admitted difficulty in effectively communicating these successes, especially on university campuses.
“I have struggled to share the president’s achievements with students,” Asefon acknowledged. “But I believe this is the Nigeria we have all envisioned.”
Lucky Emonefe, President of the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS), urged Nigerians to remain patient with Tinubu’s government.
He warned that the protest could be hijacked and lead to chaos, and suggested that the president should address the concerns of students directly.
Other stakeholders, including political leaders and civil society organizations, advised against the protest and called for a focus on dialogue.