Senator Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan (PDP, Kogi Central) has characterized the planned nationwide protests by Nigerian youths as a desperate cry for help, seeking the attention of those in power.
She made this statement in an Independence Day document titled “A Nation on the Verge of Redefinition,” in Abuja on Tuesday.
She remarked, “As we grapple with economic hardship, protests have become our powerful tool to express frustration. Our voices are growing louder, demanding attention from those in power. The protests are a cry for help, a call to action, and a demand for change.”
Reflecting on Nigeria’s 64th independence anniversary, Akpoti-Uduaghan noted that the nation is on the brink of significant transformation.
“The current socio-political landscape is marked by escalating costs of living, looming protests, and electoral processes hijacked by vested interests. These challenges have become catalysts for a far-reaching sociopolitical evolution,” she stated.
She emphasized the struggles faced by Nigerians, as inflation and stagnant wages erode purchasing power, leading to a boiling point in economic struggles that adversely affect living standards.
“The prices of basic commodities have skyrocketed, making it difficult for average Nigerians to afford necessities,” she added.
The federal lawmaker also expressed concern over what she called the hijacking of the electoral process by forces that threaten the very essence of democracy.
“Our electoral system has been marred by corruption and manipulation. This undermines democracy, leaving us feeling disenfranchised and disillusioned. The hijacking of electoral processes threatens the very foundations of our democracy,” Akpoti-Uduaghan concluded.
