Lagos — Nollywood actress and media personality Toke Makinwa has criticized the destruction and vandalism that occurred during the nationwide protest against Nigeria’s economic hardship.
On August 1, 2024, Nigerians across the country took to the streets to demonstrate against severe economic conditions. However, reports indicated that some individuals exploited the peaceful protest to damage government and private property.
In a post on her X account, Makinwa condemned the acts of vandalism, stating: “Destroying properties and stealing from your fellow Nigerians who are passing through the same hardship is not right at all. This is very sad.”
Makinwa clarified that her comments were not aimed at the protesters themselves but rather at those who engaged in theft and vandalism. She added, “I did not say the stealing and vandalism was done by protesters. The people who have their things stolen are Nigerians too, going through the same hardship. What have they done to deserve this?”
Charly Boy Calls for Continued Protest
In related news, veteran entertainer Charles Oputa, popularly known as Charly Boy, has urged Nigerians to maintain their protest momentum following the first day of the nationwide demonstration.
Charly Boy praised the bravery and determination of the Nigerian youths who participated in the protest, but emphasized that the work was only beginning. He expressed that the protest revealed a widespread disillusionment with the government.
On his X account, Charly Boy said, “Brave, Strong and determined Nigerian youths, una make me proud today. First: Una congratulations on a job well done. But our work just start.”
He continued, “Let’s keep the pressure up, because this devilish government must understand that the tide is changing. They must never feel safe again, unless dey start doing the needful. The Salvation Of Nigeria Lies In The Hands of its Exceptional Youths. I Twale for Una.”