Nigerians are facing further economic hardship and calls for a statewide demonstration against President Bola Tinubu's administration are growing. In response, the Federal Government has asked for more time and assured the people that the problem is being handled urgently.

This message was delivered on Wednesday in Abuja by Mohammed Idris, Minister of Information and National Orientation, following a Federal Executive Council meeting called by Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

Idris stated that the government is dedicated to addressing all concerns in a way that preserves peace and stability throughout the nation and referred to the planned protests as a "family matter."

The Minister emphasized that the administration is concentrated on putting solutions in place to lessen the burdens while also acknowledging the justifiable concerns of the populace.

He underlined that during this time of economic transition, communication, and tolerance are crucial.

Following the private meeting, Idris addressed reporters and stated, "We came together to discuss." As you can see, several of the ministers are present, and this is taking place at the SGF's office rather than the Council Chambers. We've talked about matters of national importance, and since we're all working for Nigeria, we think and hope that the country will once again be great.

"There won't be any sleepers. The people who are inciting unrest and calling for protests are Nigerians; we are all Nigerians, as are our brothers, sisters, and other individuals in positions of power, including ministers, the president, and all of us. This is therefore a family issue. This is a family problem in Nigeria, and we are all carefully considering it hoping that peace will ultimately win. 

When asked if there had been any communication between the government and the protest organizers and stakeholders, Idris replied that there has always been constant communication.

"This is not an odd circumstance. There has been constant engagement. Every major stakeholder has had multiple meetings with the president. Along with other government employees, I have been interacting with stakeholders and other important parties.

"We will keep engaging because it is in Nigeria's best interests to do so. We understand that this is the only nation we have, and ultimately, Nigeria would benefit from this for all of us, he said.

In response to claims made by a few prominent Nigerians, such as Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria SAN, that the protests must continue, Idris stated that the senior attorney had a democratic right to voice his opinions.

"Falana is a unique individual. Since we live in a democracy, everyone is free to express their opinions. This is a democratic scenario, and the demonstrators are also Nigerians. I keep emphasizing that we are all Nigerians and that we are all working for Nigeria, but let me just point out that yesterday, Mr. President stated that there was no need for protests and that everyone should calm down.

"A lot is occurring, Nigeria will continue to advance, and we think that the government that emerges will be beneficial to the country. We don't believe that any kind of protest is necessary; instead, we are calling for serenity and a peaceful solution to any problem.

You are allowed to post anything you want online, but the government is adamant that since we are all Nigerians, we must maintain our composure and be patient. Suffice it to say, let's give peace a chance. Everybody is working around the clock, including the president and his ministers.

As I mentioned yesterday, the President is listening to all of us, and he has a message for all Nigerians: please calm down and allow him some more time. All of their requests and entreaties will be granted," he continued.

Among the ministers present were Abubakar Bagudu (Budget and Planning), Zephaniah Jisalo (Special Duties), Tahir Mamman (Education), Yusuf Tuggar (Foreign Affairs), and Nyesom Wike (FCT).

Other notables included Bello Matawalle (Defense), David Umahi (Works), Wale Edun (Finance), Mohammed Idris (Information), and Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser (NSA).