Amidst growing discontent over the soaring cost of living in Nigeria, Minister of Works, Senator David Umahi, has boldly stated that residents of the Southeast region will not partake in nationwide protests.
His reasoning? According to Umahi, the influential figure of President Bola Tinubu has effectively addressed one of the region’s long standing issues.
Speaking from his Uburu residence in Ohaozara Local Government Area of Ebonyi State, Umahi underscored Tinubu’s pivotal role in mitigating the frequent clashes between farmers and herders, a perennial concern that has plagued the Southeast for years.
Umahi, a former governor of Ebonyi State, emphasized that the current challenges facing the Southeast are largely self-inflicted, pointing directly at the nefarious activities of what he termed as “unknown but known gunmen.”
In his view, these clandestine elements represent the primary obstacle to peace and prosperity in the region.
Drawing a stark contrast between the past and present, Umahi highlighted the significant reduction in farmers/herders clashes in the Southeast, attributing this positive development to President Tinubu’s interventions.
“If you check very well, especially in the Southeast, you will know that we no longer have incessant farmers/herders clashes,” he asserted confidently.
In light of these assertions, Umahi questioned the rationale behind joining nationwide protests against the government.
He argued that protesting against a president who has successfully tackled one of the region’s most pressing issues would be misguided. “So, why should we join the protest when the President has solved our major problem?” Umahi queried.
For Umahi, the key to restoring complete safety and enabling agricultural activities in the Southeast lies in addressing the menace of the “unknown gunmen.”
He reiterated that without this internal threat, the region would be a haven for farmers and residents alike.
In conclusion, Umahi reiterated the Southeast’s stance, firmly declaring, “So, we can’t go and join anybody to protest.”
His words echo a sentiment of gratitude towards President Tinubu for his efforts in bringing about tangible improvements in the region, while also acknowledging the internal challenges that demand urgent attention.
