A group under the auspices of Nigerian Youth for Democracy (NYD) has advised Nigerian youths to explore the option of dialogue mooted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s government instead of embarking on a 10-day nationwide strike that can grind the economy to a halt.
The group said past nationwide protests had resulted in deaths, arson attacks, and the infliction of violence on perceived political opponents, urging the youths to shelve the protest to avert a situation whereby a peaceful protest could turn bloody due to hijacking and political undercurrents.
The NYD National Coordinator and former Special Assistant on Youth and Students’ Affairs in Ekiti State, Moses Ademiloye, gave the admonition in a statement released in Ado Ekiti on Monday.
Ademiloye, a former students’ leader, handed down the warning in view of the 10-day nationwide protest being planned by a coalition of youth groups against perceived hunger in the land, injustices, and other topical issues of national interest beginning on August 1.
However, Ademiloye frowned at the recalcitrant posture of some youth groups to protest at all costs in spite of Tinubu’s readiness to dialogue and resolve some of the pertinent issues raised by them.
Ademiloye posited that such an adamant position further amplified the fears in some quarters that the proposed nationwide strike has an inkling of political undercurrents and that there is a likelihood of it becoming bloody if allowed by the federal government.
The NYD Coordinator said, “I feel compelled to address you regarding the planned national protest. While our right to peaceful assembly and expression is enshrined in our constitution, it is crucial to weigh the potential consequences of participating in such actions against our ultimate goals of peace, stability, and constructive change.
“Protests have historically played a significant role in championing the rights and voices of the marginalised. However, they also carry inherent risks, especially in our current sociopolitical climate. The planned protest, while intended to address genuine grievances, could easily spiral into violence, property destruction, and the loss of lives.
“These outcomes would be counterproductive to the cause of democracy and could undermine the progress we have made thus far. Protests can quickly turn chaotic. The risk of physical harm from clashes with law enforcement or opposing groups is significant. Injuries, or worse, fatalities, can occur, leaving families and communities devastated.”.
Ademiloye added that any protest of national dimension has a high proclivity of causing economic disruptions, forcing businesses to close down, damaging properties, and straining public resources, which he warned can lead to job losses and exacerbate economic hardship for many Nigerians, particularly struggling youths.
He harped on the imperative of citizens ruminating on the fact that protests can deepen existing social and political divides and, instead of fostering unity and understanding, create an environment of hostility and mistrust among different groups, thereby hindering the collective ability to work together for common goals.
“While protest is a form of expression, it should not replace constructive dialogue and democratic processes. Engaging in protests without exhausting other means of communication and negotiation can undermine the very democratic principles we seek to uphold.
“In light of these potential consequences, I urge all Nigerian youths to consider alternative, constructive means of effecting change. Let us engage with policymakers, community leaders, and stakeholders through dialogue. Present well-researched, viable solutions to the issues at hand. Constructive engagement can lead to meaningful changes without the risks associated with protests.
“Our generation has the potential to shape the future of Nigeria. However, we must do so with wisdom, patience, and a commitment to peace. While it is essential to stand up for our rights and demand accountability, we must also consider the long-term consequences of our actions. Let us choose the path of constructive engagement, dialogue, and peaceful activism.
“Together, we can build a Nigeria that upholds democratic values, fosters unity, and ensures a prosperous future for all its citizens.”
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