Tinubu’s speech did not address protesters’ demands – Falana

In a statement released today, Falana remarked that the presidential address earlier that day failed to tackle the protesters’ primary demand: the reversal of the fuel subsidy withdrawal policy.

“If the government focuses on combating corruption among oil dealers and ensures that crude oil is refined in government-owned facilities, the need for a fuel subsidy, which arises from the importation of petroleum products, will be eliminated. A favorable response to the crucial demands of the youth could encourage them to reconsider their actions. Ignoring their requests will only escalate the situation,” he asserted.

While commending the protesters for highlighting the plight of millions of hungry Nigerians to politicians in Abuja, Falana called for the immediate and unconditional release of all arrested protesters, asserting that they had not committed any crimes.

He condemned the repression of peaceful protests and expressed condolences to the families of those who lost loved ones during the protests.

Falana urged the government to establish commissions of inquiry to hold accountable those responsible for the reckless killings during the protests.

“We extend our sympathies to the families of the peaceful protesters who were killed and call on both Federal and State Governments to form Commissions of Inquiry with representatives from credible human rights organizations and the NBA to investigate the killings, aiming to bring to justice those culpable for these reckless acts by police officers,” he stated.

“The families of the deceased must receive adequate compensation from the federal government. The victims of these barbaric police killings should be honored as heroes and heroines in the fight for the rights of Nigeria’s marginalized population. Participation in peaceful protests should never be deemed a crime in Nigeria.”