Hardship: Cabals behind planned nationwide protests, Tinubu's aide

By Ezra Ukanwa 

The Presidency has accused cabals and enemies of Nigeria of masterminding the planned protests.

The presidency also added that they (cabals) are opposed to President Tinubu's innovative policies and youth-inclusive government.

Special Adviser to President on Student Engagement, Mr. Sunday Asefon stated this during a town hall meeting on the proposed protest, convened by the Chairman, Wells Carlton Hotel and Apartments, Mr Osahon Okunbo, on Wednesday, in Abuja. 

According to him, the cabals and bad elements are behind the move for protest because they are uncomfortable with the progress we are making.

"They are used to a system where ministers are appointed based on age, but President Tinubu has come to change that. He has brought in young people and introduced policies that are not in line with their interests”, Asefor added. 

Asefon highlighted the administration's achievements, particularly in the education sector, saying: "No president has achieved what President Tinubu has done in one year. 

“He has made student loans a reality, resolved the long-standing issue between the federal government and lecturers, and introduced policies that benefit young people."

Asefon lamented that they had failed to effectively communicate Tinubu’s achievements to the public, particularly on campuses.

 "I have failed because I couldn't go to campuses to tell them what our president has been achieving since one year in office. But I'm sure that is the Nigeria many of us have dreamed of”, he said. 

On his part, the President National Association of Nigeria Students (NANs), Lucky Emonefe, urged Nigerian to be patient with Tinubu’s government. 

He added that the protest, if held, may be hijacked and mayhem caused, adding that the president should endeavors to meet the cries of Nigerian students. 

Other stakeholders, political leaders and CSOs in the gathering encouraged Nigerians to shelve the protest and embrace dialogue.