Prominent activist and human rights lawyer, Femi Falana, has asserted that no threats from the government or other entities can prevent the nationwide protests set to begin on August 1.
Despite condemnation from various organizations and the presidency, Falana emphasized that the demonstrations aim to highlight the widespread hardship in the country.
Speaking on Channels TV on Tuesday, Falana urged the Federal Government to take a proactive approach by identifying the protest organizers and engaging them in productive dialogue.
“They have a way of contacting themselves and I think the government can draw some lessons from the 2020 (#EndSARS) experience,” Falana said. “Identify those who are planning the protest and then engage with them productively.”
Falana dismissed the threats from government officials, stating, “Threats will not work. In fact, the government’s actions often have a way of popularizing such protests. Nobody listens to such warnings.
“This time around, the government should identify the leaders of the movement and have some dialogue with them. There are demands that are being raised, and the government should address those demands.”
Falana’s comments come amid rising tensions and calls for action to address the economic difficulties faced by many Nigerians.
