As the countdown begins for a nationwide 10-day protest set to commence in five days, a surge of appeals has emerged from various sectors urging the organizers to reconsider their plans. Religious groups, ethnic organizations, and other stakeholders across Nigeria have voiced concerns about the potential for the protest to escalate into violence and chaos.
**Calls for Dialogue Intensify**
Major organizations have voiced their concerns about the impending protest. The Jama’atu Nasril Islam (JNI), led by Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, released a statement urging both the protest organizers and the Federal Government to engage in dialogue rather than proceed with the protest. JNI’s Secretary General, Prof. Khalid Aliyu, emphasized that while the economic challenges faced by Nigerians are significant, protests might not be the most effective solution and could lead to further unrest.
Similarly, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and the Pan Niger Delta Elders Forum (PANDEF) have cautioned against the potential hijacking of the protests by miscreants, which could lead to violence and destruction. CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, advocated for peaceful alternatives such as dialogue and town hall meetings, while PANDEF’s Hon. Ken Robinson warned that violent protests could lead to severe consequences.
**Regional and Local Responses**
In Lagos, the Igbo community has declared their intent to avoid participating in the protest, citing concerns over potential attacks on their businesses by hoodlums. Dennis Martins Igboanugo, President of the Building Materials Dealers Association, urged fellow citizens to focus on dialogue rather than protest, reflecting on the destructive outcomes of past events like the ENDSARS protest.
The Enugu Innovative Youths also called for a reconsideration of the protest plans, emphasizing the need for peace and stability in the state. The group, noting the positive developments under Governor Peter Mbah, expressed concerns about the potential for violence and destruction.
**Government and Security Agency Appeals**
Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has urged Kwarans to avoid actions that could disrupt the peace and stability of the state. He recalled the traumatic experiences of the ENDSARS protests and stressed the importance of avoiding further damage to businesses and public infrastructure.
Dr. Government Ekpemupolo, known as Tompolo, has also appealed to the protest organizers to postpone their plans, citing ongoing government efforts to address economic issues and improve security.
**Mixed Reactions and Concerns**
While many groups and leaders advocate for peaceful dialogue and caution against the potential for violence, some, like Sama’ila Musa from the Grassroots Mobilisation Initiative, have suggested that if protests are conducted peacefully and orderly, they could still serve as a legitimate form of expression. However, there are growing concerns about the ability of security forces to manage large-scale protests effectively and prevent potential violence.
