Ahead of the anticipated nationwide protest on August 1, the Nigerian Association of Road Transport Owners (NARTO) has cautioned its members against participating in actions that could undermine the federal government.
The protest, organized under the hashtag #EndBadGovernance, is expected to occur across all 36 states of the Federation.
President Bola Tinubu has appealed to the organizers to call off the protest, assuring that his administration is committed to alleviating the economic difficulties facing Nigerians.
Serving governors, including eminent Nigerians and traditional rulers have equally launched similar appeals, urging then to halt the protest.
NARTO President Yusuf Othman, in a statement issued at the weekend in Abuja, emphasized that the association would not support any protest led by anonymous organisers unwilling to engage in dialogue with the government.
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He urged NARTO members to remain focused on their professional responsibilities and avoid being influenced by individuals with hidden agendas.
Othman acknowledged the economic hardships in the country but noted that the current administration is actively addressing these challenges.
He stated, “We recognize the economic difficulties, but we also see the administration’s sincere efforts to tackle these issues. We will not support actions that disrupt the movement of petroleum products and the haulage of goods and services.”
He also expressed concern that a ten-day protest, as planned by the #EndBadGovernance organizers, would severely damage the economy, which is still in a fragile state.
Othman called on NARTO members to demonstrate patriotism and patience, give the administration time to stabilize the economy for the nation’s collective benefit.
“We urge the group to channel their grievances through the appropriate and legitimate means for quick resolution by the government.
“We don’t support any violent means as it will not augur well for the country.”
