Former APC Spokesman Calls for Release of Detained Protesters and Criticizes Government Actions
Comrade Timi Frank, the former Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has urged President Bola Tinubu to promptly release all hunger protesters currently in detention. Frank’s appeal, made on Sunday, also includes a demand for an end to the use of violence by police, military, and the Department of State Services (DSS) against peaceful demonstrators.
Frank criticized Nyesom Wike, the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), for his hostile attitude towards the protesters, suggesting that President Tinubu should dismiss Wike if he continues to undermine Nigerian youths.
“Nigerians have a fundamental right to protest against harmful government policies and to seek necessary changes,” Frank stated. He condemned the exploitation of the protests by sponsored groups in various states, accusing the security forces of using these actions as a pretext to suppress the demonstrations.
Frank highlighted the ongoing violence against protesters despite an official order for restraint. He emphasized that this situation must be addressed and that the President should actively protect the rights of the protesting youth.
He also criticized Wike for securing a biased court order that confined protesters to Abuja Stadium, commending the protesters for their bravery in defying this restriction. The enforcement of this order has led to widespread use of tear gas, arrests, and detentions, Frank noted.
Warning of worsening tensions if the aggression persists, Frank called on the international community, including the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, to consider imposing visa bans on Wike and the senior police and military officials responsible for the mistreatment of protesters.
Frank extended his condolences to the families of those who have died and wished a speedy recovery to the injured. He urged the Federal Government to prioritize dialogue and peaceful resolution over the use of force, asserting that these approaches are crucial for resolving the ongoing protests.
Frank remains committed to advocating for justice and the safety of Nigerian youths amid the current unrest.
