Wike’s Office Ignores Protest Request from Take-It-Back Movement 

(iexclusivenews) – The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, has sparked controversy by ignoring a formal request from the Take-It-Back Movement (TIB) to use Eagle Square for the upcoming #EndBadGovernance protest.

Which is part of the broader #DaysOfRage initiative, aims to address the ongoing national crisis attributed to poor governance.

TIB’s Formal Request for Eagle Square and Wike’s Denial of Receipt

Last Friday, SaharaReporters revealed that TIB had written to Wike, requesting the use of Eagle Square in Abuja from August 1 to 10, 2024, for their protests.

The letter, signed by Damilare Adenola, TIB’s Director of Mobilisation, emphasized the need for 24-hour access to the venue during the protests period.

In a town hall meeting with FCT stakeholders on Saturday, Wike claimed his office had not received any such letter.

However, Adenola suggested that this might be due to bureaucratic delays or Wike’s lack of sincerity.

Sources informed SaharaReporters on Monday that Wike’s office had indeed refused to acknowledge the TIB’s letter.

Last week, Wike attempted to suppress the protests by urging residents to celebrate with traditional rulers receiving certificates on August 1, the protests start date. He labeled the protesters as “faceless.”

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Adenola’s Response to “Faceless” Label

Adenola, addressing the characterization of the protest organizers as “faceless,” called it a “double insult.”

He argued that the protest is driven by “hungry Nigerians” and “unemployed Nigerians roaming the streets,” with hunger being the primary motivation.

Adenola highlighted that the protest’s demands were formed through democratic debate among young Nigerians, reflecting widespread frustration.

He clarified that the Take-It-Back Movement is part of a broader coalition organizing the protests.

Public Property and Protest Rights

During an interview with Channels Television’s Politics Today, Adenola questioned the government’s demand for payment and security fees for using public spaces like Eagle Square.

He asserted, “Eagle Square is a public property. What does the minister expect?”