JNI, CAN, PANDEF, and MOSOP Urge Nigerians to End Planned Protest
With just five days left before a planned 10-day nationwide protest against economic hardships and widespread hunger, various groups, including religious organizations, ethnic groups, and other stakeholders, have urged the protest organizers to reconsider and opt for dialogue instead. The Igbo community in Lagos, for example, has stated they will not participate in the protest, fearing that their businesses could become targets for looting and violence.
Groups urging for the protest to be called off include the Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF), the Ijaw National Congress (INC), the Movement for the Survival of Ogoni People (MOSOP), and Enugu Innovative Youths. They are concerned that the protest could be taken over by troublemakers, leading to chaos and violence.
The JNI, represented by its Secretary General Prof. Khalid Aliyu, expressed that while the nation faces severe challenges, a protest might not be the best solution. They urge for immediate and realistic dialogue with the government to prevent worsening the situation.
CAN President Archbishop Daniel Okoh echoed similar concerns, suggesting alternative methods like dialogue, petitions, and town hall meetings. They also called on the government to address economic hardships more effectively and to implement the newly approved national minimum wage.
The INC emphasized the need for caution from the government and security agencies to avoid escalating tensions and causing further unrest. They highlighted various issues facing Nigeria, including political instability, economic difficulties, and security threats, and stressed the importance of addressing these root causes.
Enugu Innovative Youths also recommended suspending the protest, citing the current progress in their state under Governor Peter Mbah and recalling the previous violence during the ENDSARS protests.
Dr. Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo) also joined the calls to delay the protest, acknowledging the ongoing economic issues but noting that the current efforts by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu might lead to improvements.
MOSOP’s President Fegalo Nsuke argued that while protest is a right, it should not be destructive or hijacked for political gain. PANDEF warned that violent protests could lead to further conflict and urged caution.
Yoruba Youth Leader Dr. Hassan Tolani suggested that a protest might not address the pressing economic issues effectively and warned against a repeat of the ENDSARS violence.
The Igbo community in Lagos is particularly concerned about their businesses being targeted and has urged their members to avoid the protest.
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq urged Kwarans to avoid actions that could disrupt peace and damage businesses, recalling the negative impact of the ENDSARS protests.
Sama’ila Musa, National Coordinator of the Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative, emphasized that while people have the right to protest, it must be conducted peacefully and in a manner that does not lead to further unrest or property damage.
