A Northern group, Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence (AYPC) has kicked against the forthcoming October 1st nationwide protest against alleged bad governance in the country.
Addressing the press at the weekend, the National Coordinator of Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence, Haruna Bature along with the Chairman, Abuja Chapter of the group, Comrade Ogah Mark Okpanachi advised the protesters to take the path of dialogue rather than violence.
“We stand before you today with a deep sense of duty and responsibility, speaking not just as concerned Nigerians but as advocates for peace, progress, and stability in our great nation. We are the Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence, and we are here to address the looming October 1st protest being planned across the country.
“We want to acknowledge the efforts of the Tinubu administration in implementing policies that aim to improve our nation. The rollout of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, for instance, 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 in April is also a welcome development.
“However, we understand that despite these efforts, many of our youths are planning to protest on October 1, 2024, in Abuja and some parts of the country. I urge our young people to reconsider this action. Protests can often lead to riots, and we must prioritize peace and stability in our city.
“Instead, we 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.
“First and foremost, 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.
“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.
“Secondly, 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.
“Moreover, when protests spiral out of control, the fabric of society is threatened. Our unity as a people is tested, and divisions can deepen. We must ask ourselves: Is this the Nigeria we want to create? A Nigeria where distrust and conflict take precedence over dialogue and understanding? A Nigeria where we allow temporary hardship to cloud our vision for the future?
“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 and instead embrace constructive dialogue with the government. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration has shown a willingness to listen, engage, and make adjustments where necessary. Let us use this avenue to voice our concerns and collaborate on solutions that will bring long-term relief.
“To the Tinubu administration, we encourage you to continue listening to the concerns of our youths and addressing the issues that affect them. Your policies have the potential to shape the future of our nation, and we must work together to ensure that future is bright.
“We also call on our fellow youth across Nigeria to channel their energy into more productive efforts. We are the future of this country, and our role is not to destroy but to build. Together, we can contribute to the nation’s growth by remaining patient, peaceful, and focused on the larger picture.
“We plead with Nigerians to endure this period of hardship with us. These tough times are not permanent, and we are confident that with our collective resilience, we will overcome. Let us not allow short-term difficulties to distract us from the long-term gains we all stand to enjoy. Let us work together to keep Nigeria secure, stable, and united”. Arewa youth said.
