August 6, 2024
By Osaiyekemwen Confidence
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has issued a statement regarding the ongoing protests in Nigeria, urging demonstrators to pursue dialogue and peaceful resolution of their grievances.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the ECOWAS Commission expressed deep concern over the violence, fatalities, and property destruction that have marred the protests. The commission extended condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and expressed sympathy with the Nigerian government and its people.
“The ECOWAS Commission has been closely monitoring the ongoing protests by citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and deeply regrets reports of violence in the course of the protests and the unfortunate death of some protesters as well as alleged looting and destruction of public and private properties. The commission extends heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and sympathizes with the Government and people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria over the losses,” the statement read.
Recognizing the right of citizens to peaceful protests as guaranteed by the 2001 ECOWAS Supplementary Protocol on Democracy and Good Governance and the 1999 Constitution of Nigeria, ECOWAS emphasized the importance of non-violent expression.
The commission also welcomed President Bola Tinubu’s recent State of the Nation address on Sunday, in which he called for inclusive dialogue to address the protesters’ grievances.
“The Commission welcomes the State of the Nation address of August 4, 2024, by President Bola Tinubu and urges the protesters and all stakeholders to heed the President’s call for inclusive dialogue for the resolution of all grievances and the preservation of peace and security in Nigeria and the ECOWAS region at large,” the statement added.
The protests in Nigeria, which began as a peaceful demonstration against the rising cost of living and food insecurity, turned violent last week, resulting in numerous deaths and the burning of properties. The protests are scheduled to end on August 10.
