PDP Criticises President Tinubu Over Arrests of NLC Boss by Security Operatives

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has sharply criticised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu over the recent arrests of Nigerian citizens by security operatives, condemning what it describes as a growing trend of government repression under his administration.

The arrest of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Joe Ajaero, by operatives of the Department of State Services (DSS) at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport on Monday, has sparked outrage, with the PDP pointing fingers squarely at President Tinubu for the escalating crackdown on dissent.

At a press conference held in Abuja, Debo Ologunagba, the PDP’s National Publicity Secretary, expressed deep concerns over the administration’s approach to handling public dissent and accused President Tinubu of using security forces to silence opposition voices.

Ologunagba’s comments came in response to a series of protests that erupted across multiple Nigerian cities between August 1 and August 10, 2024, where citizens took to the streets to protest against worsening economic conditions and the rising cost of living.

The PDP spokesperson highlighted the plight of ordinary Nigerians who have been adversely affected by the government’s policies, stating that rather than addressing the root causes of the unrest, the administration has resorted to heavy-handed tactics, including arbitrary arrests and intimidation.

Ologunagba emphasised the need for the government to focus on alleviating the hardships faced by Nigerians, rather than targeting those who speak out against it.

“There is a clear need for caution,” Ologunagba stated. “People are protesting because they are hungry, because the economic conditions have become unbearable.

Instead of addressing the issues causing these protests, the government is arresting people and labelling them as terrorists or claiming they are being sponsored by unknown entities.

The truth is, the sponsor of these protests is hunger itself. If the government were to ‘arrest’ hunger and provide relief to the people, there would be no need for protests.”

The PDP’s condemnation reflects a broader concern about the state of democracy and freedom of expression in Nigeria.

Ologunagba accused the Tinubu administration of implementing draconian measures that have further strained the livelihoods of Nigerians, particularly at a time when families are grappling with the costs of sending children back to school and managing everyday expenses in an inflation-ridden economy.

According to the PDP, the government’s response to public outcry has been disproportionately punitive, with security forces allegedly acting on directives to stifle dissent rather than protect the rights of citizens.

The party pointed to the recent wave of protests as a manifestation of deep-seated frustration among Nigerians who feel abandoned by their leaders.

The PDP argues that instead of showing empathy and working towards solutions, the government has chosen to respond with force, thereby escalating tensions and deepening public discontent.

“The President and his team need to understand that arresting citizens for expressing their frustrations will not solve the underlying problems,” Ologunagba added.

“What Nigerians need are policies that will ease their suffering, create jobs, stabilise the economy, and reduce the cost of living.

Until these issues are addressed, any attempt to suppress the voices of the people will only fuel more discontent.”

The PDP’s critique of President Tinubu’s handling of civil unrest is a call to action for the administration to reconsider its approach and prioritise the welfare of the people.

Ologunagba underscored the importance of engaging with the populace through dialogue rather than deploying security forces to quash legitimate grievances.

He called on the government to demonstrate leadership by tackling the economic challenges head-on, thereby restoring confidence among Nigerians.

Furthermore, the PDP urged President Tinubu to take immediate steps to address the grievances that have led to widespread protests, including reversing or adjusting policies that have placed undue pressure on citizens.

The party also called on the administration to release all individuals arrested in connection with the protests and to ensure that future engagements between the government and the public are conducted in a manner that respects the rights and dignity of all Nigerians.

In conclusion, the PDP reiterated its commitment to standing with the Nigerian people and holding the government accountable for its actions.

Ologunagba warned that continued repression of citizens would only deepen the divides within the country and urged the Tinubu administration to embrace a more compassionate and responsive governance style.

As the situation unfolds, the PDP’s statements reflect a broader demand for greater accountability, transparency, and a genuine commitment to improving the lives of all Nigerians.

The party’s message is clear: the government must shift its focus from silencing dissent to addressing the core issues that drive it.