Barely 24 hours after they were addressed by Governor Umo Eno, critical stakeholders comprising youth groups, students and market associations have backed out of the planned nationwide hardship protest scheduled to commence on August 1.
Among other stakeholders that withdrew from the proposed protests against the economic situation in the country include the state chapters of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), and other interest groups.
Addressing the coalition at Government House in Uyo, Governor Eno acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens to assemble and peacefully protest certain acts of government.
He however appealed that the State will benefit more in an atmosphere of peace and tranquility.
The Governor noted that the state has made committed efforts towards improving the welfare of the people through various interventions, especially in the areas of government – labour relations, humanitarian initiatives, youth empowerment schemes, palliative, agriculture, education, healthcare services and other capital projects.
“Let me also emphasise that we are a peaceful state and we have maintained this hard-won peace over the years.
“I want to appeal, if at all, you will participate in the planned protest, to please do so peacefully. You must ensure that miscreants and hoodlums do not hijack your protest.
“The question, however remains: Should the protest actually take place here, given our people-friendly disposition, our deep and abiding concerns for the welfare of our people, the workers in the public service, the care for the poor and the most vulnerable, our intentional concentration of resources to giving hope to the hopeless, and the ARISE Compassionate Homes we have built?
“We have paid over N22 billion gratuities to the retired Primary School, Local Government and State Civil Service retirees and N50,000 stipend to the elderly in our ARISE Elderly Care Initiative.
“Our free voucher programme through our Bulk Purchase Agency has so far touched 314, 422 families in the state, the social transfers to the aged, physically challenged and other vulnerable residents,” Governor Eno said.
The state’s commissioner of Police, CP Waheed Ayilara, for his part, said the police and other sister agencies were ready to provide the necessary protection to all, including those wishing to protest, while also reeling out conditions for such protest.