Avoid violence, protect protesters, CISLAC tells activists, govt

Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called for the protection of protesters, even as it urged protesters to maintain peace and avoid destruction of properties amid growing concerns that the demonstrations have been hijacked by criminal elements and political actors with nefarious intentions.
 
In a statement signed by the Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, the organisation expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation and the influence of non-state actors in several states, including Kano.

The situation, observed through CISLAC’s situation room, indicated that security operatives were being influenced by political interference linked to local rivalries, leading to inadequate protection of peaceful protesters.

“The peaceful demonstrations by Nigerians, initially intended to express legitimate grievances, have unfortunately been hijacked and turned into violent chaos.

“Criminal elements are exploiting the protests to create further unrest and undermine public safety,” Rafsanjani stated.
 
CISLAC emphasised that government must refrain from politicising security measures, particularly in Kano, and prioritise the protection of lives and properties. The violence and destruction currently witnessed are contrary to the intentions of the peaceful protesters.

“Government should stop politicising security in Kano and protect the lives and properties of all. The balkanisation of properties and killings witnessed are not in tandem with what innocent Nigerians are calling for,” the statement added.

The organisation criticised alleged government’s sponsorship of counter-protests aimed at undermining the legitimate demonstrations.
CISLAC pleaded with respected leaders across the country to ensure an end to violence and destruction.