The Delta State chapter of Ijaw Welders and Fitters Ogbo (Association) has issued a notice to members of the professional body in the state to "stay calm" as it adds its voice to other stakeholders for the cancellation of the nationwide planned protest purportedly billed to hold from August 1 to 10, 2024.

The notice was contained in a statement that was signed by the chairman of the association, Chief George Timiyan JP, and issued to the public on Monday, July 29.

The professional ethnic association's leadership noted that while citizens have the freedom to express their grievances through peaceful protests, however called on the aggrieved organisers to shed the planned protests in the interest of promoting peace and security, and that the purpose of the protest has been noted by the federal government.

"This is to notify all Ijaw Welders and Fitters Ogbo (Association) in Delta State to stay calm regarding the upcoming protest (End Bad governance).

"We the leadership, having painstakingly studied the development in cognizance of the fragility of the economy, once again advise all professionals, especially the Ijaw Welders and Fitters Association in Delta State, to stay calm.

"This is in pursuit of a better government which we believe the President Bola Tinubu's administration is working to achieve. We should not forget that this challenge did not begin today but were inherited from the previous government," the association assured.

Chief Timiyan however appealed to the federal government to make use of the opportunity to revamp the economy with reforms focused on reducing the prices of fuel and basic food items, in order to assuage the grievances of citizens.

"We also use this medium to urge the federal and state government to address the widespread hardships affecting all citizens. The critical issues demanding immediate attention are fuel prices and food availability.

"Fuel (petrol) prices should be lowered to at least N200 per liter as this will go a long way to alleviate hardships and potentially prevent protests from escalating.

"The government should focus on food supply, both local and imported, which is crucial for citizens' well-being. It is essential for the government to act promptly to avoid further unrest and ensure stability in the country," Chief Timiyan stressed.

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