Protesters are not criminals, protests are legitimate – Ike Ibe

By Chinedum Anayo I Monday, August 05, 2024

 

OWERRI, Imo, Nigeria – A former speaker of the Imo state house of assembly, Ike Ibe has said that protesters are not criminals because protests are constitutionally permitted.

In a statement issued on Monday, 5 August, he emphasized that the government is meant to provide the greatest good for the people, highlighting that protests are a way of expression and communication.

The former gubernatorial candidate further pointed out that the loss of lives during the ‘EndBadGovernance’ protests was avoidable and highly condemnable.

“Government is supposed to provide the greatest good for a large number of people.

“Unfortunately, the protests that have occurred in Nigeria in that last few days have resulted to the loss of innocent lives and police officers. Police agents are not supposed to come to protest grounds with weapons”. He stated.

Ibe then lamented that the actions of security agents are wrong for Nigeria’s democracy, urging the government to take necessary steps to address the concerns of the people.