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Senate President Godswill Akpabio accuses 2023 presidential election losers of sponsoring planned nationwide protests against President Bola Tinubu's economic policies, warning against violence and property damage.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has accused the candidates who lost the 2023 presidential election of sponsoring the planned nationwide protest. Speaking on Monday at the State House, Abuja, after President Bola Tinubu signed the new minimum wage bill into law, Akpabio alleged that these individuals, including Atiku Abubakar of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Peter Obi of the Labour Party, and Omoyele Sowore of African Action Congress (AAC), are behind the protests.

The planned protest is scheduled to take place between August 1 and August 10 in response to the economic hardships caused by Tinubu's administration. Akpabio warned that these protests if turned violent, could lead to anarchy and significant financial losses for the country. He urged protesters to avoid damaging property, emphasizing the importance of using funds for development rather than repairs. Akpabio also expressed concerns that some individuals might exploit the protests to loot and commit other crimes, calling for peaceful demonstrations without destabilizing the nation.

The public's response to Akpabio's statements varied, with many expressing frustration over the current economic situation and questioning the motives behind the anti-protest sentiments. Comments on social media reflected a mix of skepticism, criticism, and calls for genuine improvements in governance.