Mike Ejiofor, former Director of the Department of State Services (DSS), has attributed the relatively peaceful nature of the 2012 anti-subsidy removal protests to the demeanor and “body language” of then-President Goodluck Jonathan. Speaking on Arise TV on Friday, Ejiofor highlighted that the conditions during the 2012 protests were less severe compared to the current climate.
Ejiofor argued that the 2012 protests did not escalate into violence largely due to Jonathan’s accommodating approach, which contrasted with the present-day situation marked by heightened economic hardship and public discontent. He suggested that the current environment is ripe for exploitation due to widespread hunger and desperation among Nigerians.
Reflecting on the current protests, Ejiofor voiced concerns that the demonstrations could potentially be hijacked by individuals seeking to capitalize on the unrest. He noted the importance of the protest organizers providing adequate notice to the government, as they did in 2012, but expressed worry that escalating demands might lead to violence if not managed properly.
Ejiofor urged President Bola Tinubu to broaden his consultations to include ordinary Nigerians, emphasizing the need for direct engagement with the public. He recommended that the President address the nation through a broadcast to better inform and ease the tension among the populace.
“Protesting is a constitutional right, but it should be carried out peacefully,” Ejiofor said. “While acknowledging the economic hardships and hunger driving current protests, it is crucial that such actions do not devolve into violence. The government must protect both the state and its citizens, and the President should consider a national broadcast to directly communicate with the people.”
Ejiofor’s comments come amid ongoing debates about the best approach to address growing public dissatisfaction and economic challenges in Nigeria.
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