In a recent report by The Sun, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Femi Falana discussed the reactions of government officials to the ongoing nationwide protests. Falana highlighted several dismissive and derogatory remarks made by high-ranking officials, emphasizing their lack of empathy towards the protesters.
Falana specifically mentioned Senate President Godswill Akpabio, who made light of the situation by stating that while people protest, he and others would be eating. Vice President Kashim Shettima also insulted the protesters, referring to them in derogatory terms. These comments, according to Falana, reflect a deep disconnect between the government and the citizens.
He outlined the various measures taken by the Federal Government to prevent the protests. He explained that the government held meetings with selected political, religious, and traditional leaders who promised to discourage the protests. Despite these assurances, the government remained uncertain about their effectiveness in quelling the public dissent.
Falana pointed out that some groups falsely claimed to withdraw their support for the protests, even though they had no real involvement in organizing them. This tactic was seen as an attempt to undermine the legitimacy and momentum of the protests. However, these efforts did not fully convince the authorities that the protests could be completely stopped.
In response to this uncertainty, the government quickly mobilized a group of individuals to either disrupt the protests or stage counter-protests in support of the administration. This move was aimed at creating a perception of divided public opinion and reducing the impact of the protests.
He said: “In a very provocative manner, the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio said that “while you protest, we shall be eating.” On his own part, Vice President Kashim Shettima said that the protesters are “idiots….Viêw_ More
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