Nigerian DJ, Obianuju Catherine Udeh, popularly known as DJ Switch, has issued a bold challenge to Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister Nyesom Wike and Niger Delta activist Asari Dokubo, urging them to address the root causes of hunger instead of resorting to threats.

Advertorial

The challenge comes in the wake of nationwide protests titled “10 Days of Rage” under the hashtag #EndBadGovernance, aimed at highlighting the economic challenges facing Nigeria.

Before the protests began, Asari Dokubo warned against bringing the demonstrations to the Niger Delta region, arguing that the protesters’ agenda did not address local issues.

Advertorial

“I and all those who believe in me and those of you who are committed to the interest of the Niger Delta, we are not going to be part of any protest. It is as clear as that,” he stated firmly. “If anybody has the right to protest, I also have the right to resist protest. Where your right stops, that is where my right begins.”

Similarly, Nyesom Wike, during a security council meeting in Abuja, raised concerns about potential property damage by protesters based on intelligence reports.

Advertorial

He also mentioned the identification of a senator suspected of sponsoring the protests.

In response to these statements, DJ Switch took to social media to directly challenge Wike and Asari Dokubo to confront the protesters face-to-face.

“The only thing that can stop HUNGER is FOOD! Not guns, not teargas, not threats from fat globs like Asari Dokubo and chicken feed Wike! I wonder why they are hiding now…. Come outside let them eat you raw!” DJ Switch posted on her X handle.

Earlier on August 1, she had encouraged Nigerians to view the hunger protests as a critical opportunity to demand better governance in the country.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the government led by President Bola Tinubu to listen to the voices of the people and address the demands of protesters participating in the #Hunger protests across Nigeria.

Atiku commended Nigerian youths for their peaceful conduct during the nationwide protests that began on Thursday.

Advertorial

In a statement from Abuja on Friday, Atiku emphasized the need for the government to demonstrate sincere commitment in addressing the grievances of the protesters.

He urged swift action, stating, “It is time to come down from your high horses and show integrity and urgency in responding to the people’s demands. The nation cannot afford further unrest.”

Advertorial

Atiku also denounced acts of vandalism against public and private property, as well as reported instances of police brutality against innocent citizens.

“While the protests have provided a vital platform for public dissent and discourse on governance, we must condemn any violence that disrupts the peace,” he stated.

He urged protesters to maintain their peaceful stance and encouraged more Nigerians to support the #EndBadGovernance peaceful protest.

Advertorial

Atiku called for professionalism from the police in managing the protests, emphasizing the need for security agencies to exercise restraint and refrain from unjustly targeting journalists.

“The unnecessary use of force and brutality against innocent civilians must cease,” Atiku asserted.

He urged security agencies to identify and isolate individuals engaging in violence and looting, ensuring that their actions do not overshadow the peaceful intentions of the majority of protesters.

Advertorial

Atiku urged all stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue and uphold respect for the rule of law during this critical period of national dialogue on governance and accountability.

Peter Obi, the Labour Party’s Presidential Candidate in the 2023 general election, has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to address the nation amidst ongoing protests.

The demonstrations, which took place in over 25 states on Thursday and continued with less violence on Friday, highlight the public’s discontent.

Advertorial

Speaking from his home in Onitsha, Anambra State, Obi emphasized the importance of the President responding to the legitimate demands of the protesters.

He also clarified a circulating video that showed him in Abuja, stating, “I am here in Onitsha; I can’t be here and be in Abuja.”

Obi acknowledged the protesters’ concerns about nationwide hardship and urged that their demands be pursued legally.

Advertorial

He insisted that President Tinubu should directly address the nation, rather than relying on aides or appointees during such critical times.

“My appeal is for the President to come out and address the nation, he is the one the people elected, holding their mandate, and he should not be using aides or appointees to reach the people at such critical times,” Obi said.

He also expressed condolences to the families of those who lost their lives, as well as to those injured and those who lost property during the protests.