ABUJA: Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Sunday called for an end to nationwide protests and an end to “bloodshed” after security forces cracked down on demonstrations over economic hardship.
Thousands of protesters took to the streets last week to protest government policies and the high cost of living.
Amnesty International has accused security forces of killing at least 13 protesters, while police say seven people have died and deny responsibility.
In a televised address, Tinubu urged protesters to “suspend any further protest and create space for dialogue”, his first public comments on the demonstrations since they began on Thursday.
“I heard you loud and clear. I understand the pain and frustration driving these protests, and I want to assure you that our government is committed to listening and addressing the concerns of our citizens,” he said.
“But we must not allow violence and destruction to tear our nation apart,” he warned. “We must stop further bloodshed, violence and destruction.” Tinubu also used the speech to defend his record and outlined measures he said would benefit young Nigerians and the economy.
