President Bola Tinubu has urged protesters to suspend their demonstrations and engage in dialogue with his administration.
In a nationwide address on Sunday, he expressed his commitment to listening to and addressing the concerns of Nigerians.
Tinubu commiserated with families of those who lost their lives during clashes with security forces and those who suffered property damage.
He condemned ethnic bigotry and threats, emphasizing the importance of respecting the constitutional rights of all citizens.
The President acknowledged the pain and frustration driving the protests but warned against violence and destruction.
He defended his economic policies, including the removal of petrol subsidies, as necessary for reversing decades of mismanagement.
Tinubu assured Nigerians that his administration is working hard to deliver good governance and promised visible results soon.
He called for patience, citing increased government revenues and growing productivity in the non-oil sector.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Police Force reported the arrest of 681 protesters suspected to be hoodlums for various offenses between Thursday and Friday.
