Vice President Kashim Shettima has denounced the organizers of the planned August protests against President Bola Tinubu’s government as “idiots” and “bandits” in the diaspora. He claimed they are plotting to cause trouble from abroad, citing examples of Syria and Libya.
Shettima’s comments come as the government faces growing criticism over the economic crisis and cost of living crisis. Despite the International Monetary Fund’s praise for Tinubu’s economic policies, Nigerians are preparing for a massive nationwide protest from August 1-10.
The Vice President’s remarks have sparked controversy, with many arguing that the protests are a response to the government’s failures, not the work of external agents. The Financial Times has also criticized Tinubu’s “disjointed” economic policies, saying they are pushing “tens of millions” into misery.
As the protest approaches, the government has sought to rally support from clerics, religious associations, and traditional rulers to dissuade Nigerians from participating. However, with economic hardships worsening, it remains to be seen whether these efforts will be enough to quell the growing discontent.