Ahead of Nigeria’s 64th Independence Day anniversary, a group of youths under the umbrella name of Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence has called for caution against planned protests by some youths.
Speaking Friday in Abuja, the group said that as advocates for peace, progress and stability in Nigeria, it was in their interest to address the looming October 1st protest being planned across the country.
The Chairman of the Federal Capital Territory of the group, Mr Mark Okpanachi Ogah, who spoke on behalf of the group, urged Nigerians to acknowledge the efforts of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration in implementing policies that aim to improve the country.
“The rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses is a step towards providing affordable and efficient transportation for our citizens.
“Additionally, the ministerial performance bond is a bold move to ensure accountability and effectiveness within the government. The planned implementation of the new National Minimum Wage is also a welcome development”, he said.
Ogah decried that in spite of the government’s efforts, some youths are planning to protest on October 1 in Abuja.
“I urge our young people to reconsider this action. Protests can often lead to riots, and we must prioritise peace and stability in our city. Instead, I propose that we engage in constructive dialogue with the government to address our concerns. Let us work together to find solutions to our economic challenges, such as the rising inflation rate and fuel subsidy removal.
“Our collective voices can bring about positive change, but let us do so in a peaceful and respectful manner. We must consider the economic impact of a large-scale protest.
“Protests can easily disrupt economic activities, halt business operations and create an atmosphere of uncertainty.
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“Nigeria is already dealing with economic challenges, and a protest of this magnitude could further slow down growth, affect our fragile markets, and disrupt livelihoods.
“The very businesses that people depend on for their daily sustenance could be crippled, and the ripple effects on jobs, trade, and investment would be damaging.
“Also, there is the issue of security. We live in a time where insecurity remains a serious concern. Protests, no matter how well-intentioned, have the potential to be hijacked by criminal elements.
“What begins as a peaceful demonstration can quickly escalate into chaos, resulting in violence, looting, and harm to innocent citizens. We have seen this happen before, and we cannot afford to repeat the mistakes of the past. The safety of all Nigerians is paramount, and we cannot put that at risk.”
“Our message today is clear, we must not allow our frustrations to push us towards actions that could derail the progress we seek. We urge Nigerians to avoid the October 1st protest but rather embrace constructive dialogue with the government”, Ogah pleaded.
