As the Take It Back Movement (TIBM) continues to defy warnings issued by the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, over the ongoing nationwide protests that have resulted in chaos in Abuja and Port Harcourt, the United Nations Country Director, UN-ECOSOC (IAWPA), and Peace Ambassador, John Adekorede Aderibigbe, has called on protesters to embrace peaceful dialogue.

The protests, which have seen demonstrators dispersed with tear gas by police, have led to pandemonium and left several individuals with varying degrees of injury.

Aderibigbe appealed to the organisers of the nationwide protest, particularly Nigerian youth, to remain calm, reject violence, and focus on engaging in peaceful and lawful expressions of their demands, especially through digital platforms, which offer inclusive and far-reaching avenues for advocacy.

Expressing concern over the potential escalation of unrest, the peace advocate urged for a more constructive and non-violent approach to addressing national grievances.

“Though the protesters may be championing a just cause, their current approach is misplaced. There is no doubt that citizens have the right to hold their leaders accountable and express dissatisfaction with the state of the nation. However, it must be done through the right channels, with good intentions that promote peace and unity,” he said.

While acknowledging the legitimacy of the grievances behind the protests, Aderibigbe emphasised the need for peace and national stability to remain paramount.

“The development and empowerment of Nigerian youth and the broader population should be a central focus of the government. I fully understand the frustration and aspirations fueling this movement, but I believe the nation currently needs calm, dialogue, and patience not actions that could further destabilise our fragile peace,” he said.

He further urged organisers to ensure that the protests are not hijacked by non-state actors or elements inciting hate and division.

He further warned that such interference could plunge the country into unnecessary crisis and undermine its fragile democracy.