Amidst the nationwide protests against bad governance, Nigerian artist Spyro has called for an “entertainment break” to provide a moment of respite and unity for demonstrators.

Spyro made the call via his Instagram account on Thursday. In his statement, the singer also called upon religious leaders to intervene and speak in support of the protests. 

“I personally think it is quite insensitive to post anything entertainment now. The country is bleeding, and we are all affected, whether we agree to that fact or not. I am very much affected and I particularly feel the pain of the average man,” he said.

He urged government to listen to the people while also tasking other celebrities to join the protest by using their platforms to raise awareness.

“I don’t intend to keep mute, so I’m calling on everyone with a platform to speak up. I am hoping that the government will see our tears this time and take actual steps for the betterment of the people. #GODBLESSNIGERIA.

“I wish men of God can speak up for the people now as it was in the days of old… This is not a time to PRAY; it’s a time to ACT. Even the Bible says, ‘FAITH without WORKS is dead.’ In the Bible days, men of God were strong tools that God used to challenge the government and liberate the people. MOSES, your people need you now.”

The #EndBadGovernance protest started Monday, August 1,  with citizens protesting nationwide and calling on the government to address issues of bad governance and hunger in the country.