Solomon Dalung, a former Minister of Youth and Sports Development under ex-President Muhammadu Buhari, has publicly criticized President Bola Tinubu’s recent national broadcast, which called for an end to the ongoing nationwide protests against hunger. Dalung, who has been a prominent figure in the protests, dismissed the President’s speech as ineffective and lacking in substance.
Dalung, who led an anti-government protest in Jos, Plateau State, last Thursday, was also present at an open-air church service held by protesters in the same city on Sunday. Addressing journalists at the Old Airport Roundabout, where a large crowd of demonstrators, including Christian and Muslim leaders, had gathered, Dalung reiterated that the protests were far from over.
“The President’s speech was empty. He didn’t make any appeal to the protesters; instead, he threatened them and encouraged security forces to continue their crackdown, even to the point of shooting and killing. He wasn’t addressing the nation; he was talking to himself and his cabinet members. Everything he said only strengthens our resolve to continue this protest,” Dalung stated.
The protesters, waving Nigerian flags, blocked the Old Airport Roundabout, forcing motorists to take alternative routes within the city. Many attendees of the church service, including Christian and Muslim leaders, emphasized the importance of seeking divine intervention for the nation’s struggles.
One protester, Philip Madaki, shared his reasons for attending the Sunday service at the protest site. “I’ve been part of this protest since it began on Thursday, and today, we’re continuing with a church service. We believe God has not abandoned Nigeria and can still influence our leaders’ hearts. We want them to recognize the suffering caused by bad governance and harsh economic policies and take steps to change the situation. That’s why we’re incorporating prayer into our protests,” Madaki explained.
The protests, which have drawn significant attention nationwide, highlight the growing discontent among citizens over economic hardships and perceived government inaction.
