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Tag: protests

  • After the protests

    After the protests

    In the aftermath of the nationwide 10-day so-called hunger protests that turned violent in parts of the country, many Nigerians who allegedly participated in the protests are said to be suffering in detention. 

    A lawyer associated with the #EndBadGovernance protesters, Deji Adeyanju, was reported saying, “We do not have a specific number. But we have no fewer than 1,400 protesters, who were arrested nationwide in detention.

    “In Abuja, we are aware that no fewer than 50 people were arrested. We were able to secure the release of 27 people and it is assumed that 30 or more people are in custody.”

    He added: “Many of the protesters in Abuja are in the Intelligence Response Team, IRT. (Others are in) Bombai in Kano, and Kaduna Police commands, and other parts of the country.”

    He also said “the majority of the protesters feed once a day from what we have heard,” adding that the police “have refused to arraign the protesters before a Federal High Court in Abuja.”

    Three activists arrested in connection with the protests, Adaramoye Lenin, Mosiu Sodiq and Eleojo Opaluwa, were said to be in detention on the orders of the National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu.

    Predictably, civil society organisations (CSOs) accused the Federal Government of violating the rights of the detainees by caging them without trial.  For instance, the Executive Director of the Resource Centre for Human Rights and Civic Education (CHRICED), Dr Zikirullahi Ibrahim, was reported saying, “We hope that a good number of the detained protesters are still alive.”

    Read Also: FG, ASUU meet Monday on outstanding demands

    The authorities are not helping matters by keeping the arrested protesters in detention without trial. It is not a fair approach. They should be arraigned without delay. Failure to do so gives the impression that the authorities are lawless.

    Interestingly, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, indirectly acknowledged that the protests were not totally negative. According to him, “We have learnt that even the current protests have made us listen more. Whatever we are doing, we have taken the message that we need to do more, we need to do better, and we need to do it in a hurry.” He spoke at the “Nigerian Economic Summit Group National Economic Dialogue on Nigeria’s Economic Future: 25 Years of Democracy and Beyond.” It can be said that detaining the arrested protesters without trial contradicts his words. 

    The authorities should arraign the detainees, towards establishing that they, indeed, committed crimes during the protests. That is the lawful thing to do.

  • FG admits #EndBadGovernance protests will spur reforms

    FG admits #EndBadGovernance protests will spur reforms

    The Federal Government has acknowledged that the recent wave of protests by aggrieved Nigerians demanding an end to bad governance has compelled its officials to be more attentive and proactive in addressing the nation’s challenges. 

    Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, stated during his address at the National Economic Dialogue 2024 organized by the Nigerian Economic Summit Group (NESG) in Abuja on Wednesday.

    Bagudu’s remarks come on the heels of widespread protests from August 1- 10 in response to the economic hardships faced by Nigerians. 

    The protests were sparked by rising costs of living exacerbated by the removal of fuel subsidies, surging inflation—now at a 28-year high—and the naira plunging to a record low against the dollar.

    Addressing the impact of these protests, Bagudu stated. “We have learned, and even the recent protests have made us listen more. Whatever we are doing, we have taken the message that we need to do more, we need to do better, and we need to do it in a hurry.” 

    The Minister noted that this pivotal moment, indicates that the government is not only aware of public discontent but is also committed to responding with positive action.

    Bagudu noted the deep-seated issues contributing to Nigeria’s current economic challenges. He pointed out that the nation’s stunted growth is the result of cumulative underinvestment over the years. 

    The Minister stressed that despite efforts by previous administrations, the country has not achieved the level of economic prosperity it aspires to, particularly in terms of income per capita.

    “President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been very reluctant to reflect on the past and blame anybody, but the net effect is that despite efforts by previous administrations, especially in the last 25 years, we are not where we want to be,” Bagudu said. 

    He further elaborated on the disconnect between the country’s population growth and its oil production, noting that while Nigeria’s population has nearly doubled since 1999, oil production has declined significantly due to years of underinvestment in the sector.

    Read Also: Massive protests in India over alleged rape, murder of doctor

    He emphasised that the current administration is determined to correct these past mistakes and set Nigeria on a path to prosperity over the next 25 years. 

    However, he stressed that achieving this goal will require substantial public and private investments. 

    “We want to ensure that we invest not less than $100 billion annually. But if our experience in the last 25 years should serve us as a guide, we sometimes know how difficult it is because you have to make choices that are both pleasant and unpleasant to be able to mobilize capital, private and borrowed capital, to support our aspiration,” he explained.

    Bagudu also called for a minimum level of cooperation between the government and the private sector, which he believes is crucial for effective planning and achieving better results. He acknowledged the long-standing issue of fuel subsidies, which he described as a burden that has “harmed” the nation’s economy. According to the minister, the removal of fuel subsidies, although painful, is a necessary step towards fiscal responsibility and economic truthfulness.

    “We have been living a lie,” Bagudu stated. “As unpleasant as it is, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said let’s begin to tell ourselves the truth that we are not as rich as we think we are. It’s not a shame. Countries that have done that thinking and established that truth much earlier than us have made choices that have taken them where they want to be.”

    Echoing the Minister’s sentiments, the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, acknowledged the array of socio-economic challenges that threaten the very existence of Nigeria’s national union. 

    He emphasised the need for strengthened collaboration between the government and the people to tackle these challenges and answer the “unsettled questions” of the nation’s future.

    “This dialogue at this time in our nation’s history provides us with an opportunity to collectively proffer answers to critical questions that will determine the survival of our national union and define the conditions of that union,” Gbajabiamila said. 

    He underscored that the decisions made now on how to manage the economy, govern the country, and address citizen differences will shape the future Nigeria that current and future generations will inherit.

    Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, also addressed the gathering, reiterating the importance of staying on the path of economic growth and stability. 

    He noted that despite 25 years of democracy, Nigeria is still striving to achieve its economic goals, and this requires continuous effort and resilience.

    “Democracy may not be the only form in which to organize a society, but I think all of us agree that it is the best,” Edun remarked. 

    He highlighted the government’s efforts to reduce inflation, particularly food inflation, as part of its immediate-term goals. “More availability of food at affordable prices is the goal of the administration in the immediate term,” he added.

  • Protests: ACF condemns looting, destruction

    Protests: ACF condemns looting, destruction

    The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) has expressed deep concern over the deaths, injuries, and widespread destruction that occurred during the protests in several urban centres across Nigeria earlier this month.

    The ACF also condemned the looting, vandalism, and destruction of both public and private properties that marred the protests, which began on August 1, 2024.

    According to the ACF, the protests, initially planned to last for ten days, quickly escalated into near-generalized social disorder, particularly in Northern Nigeria. The Forum criticized the actions of the protesters, describing them as going far beyond permissible limits and questioning the motivations behind what it termed as poorly organized protests driven by faceless organizers.

    In a statement by Prof. Tukur Muhammad-Baba, the National Publicity Secretary of the ACF, the Forum emphasized: “We had raised concerns about the potential for these protests to lead to a breakdown of law and order, and sadly, our apprehensions have been vindicated by the unfortunate turn of events.”

    He further added: “The waving of the Russian flag by some protesters was not only inexplicable but also unequivocally condemnable.”

    While acknowledging the widespread discontent, frustration, and anger among the Nigerian populace, particularly over the past 14 months of the current administration, ACF noted that the existential conditions faced by citizens must not be ignored. He said, “The dire living conditions, lack of education, healthcare, and economic opportunities, coupled with the ongoing insecurity in the country, require urgent attention.”

    While criticizing the inadequate response by both federal and state governments, as well as security agencies, to the well-publicized protests, the forum stated: “The constitutional rights of citizens to express grievances through demonstrations and protests must be respected. However, there is a need for robust and dynamic engagement between citizens and government representatives on the direction of public policies.”

    Read Also: The hunger protests in retrospect

    The forum also extended its condolences to the families of those who lost their lives and expressed sympathy for those who were injured or whose properties were looted or damaged during the protests. “We urge calm and resilience among citizens as they struggle to move on from the devastating effects of the protests,” Prof. Muhammad-Baba said.

    The Forum welcomed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s announcement of his intention to engage the public in consultations on the current trajectory of public policy. Prof. Muhammad-Baba urged that these consultations be well-organized and inclusive of various stakeholders, including community-based organizations, interest groups, professional associations, and religious leaders.

    Furthermore, the ACF called on public officials to shun ostentatious lifestyles and insensitive utterances, which contribute to widespread despair and dissatisfaction among ordinary citizens. The Forum also called for the entrenchment of accountability and good governance at all levels of government and urged a reinvigorated anti-corruption drive, stating that previous efforts have been “feeble and cosmetic.”

  • The hunger protests in retrospect

    The hunger protests in retrospect

    • By Jaiyeola Lewu

    President Bola Tinubu’s national broadcast of August 4 did not sufficiently address the concerns of the protesters, particularly the excruciating hunger and the deep anger it unleashed.

    He narrated the measures his administration has been taking to improve the depressing economic situation he inherited from his predecessor, Muhammadu Buhari, who left more liabilities than assets.   But if he believes that those measures have alleviated the suffering of the people, he is mistaken. 

    That much was clear from the renewed protests the day after, and the violence that trailed them, particularly in the northern parts of the country.  As I listened to the broadcast and read the transcript later, I was hoping that the conclusion would spell out some definitive actions that could bring immediate succour or short-term relief.   Unfortunately, that was not the case.

    Bringing back in some measure the fuel subsidies and improving substantially the value of the Naira vis-a-vis foreign currencies could have helped tame the runaway inflation that that has caused food prices to skyrocket and forced down living standards.

    In my article titled “To Avert the Looming Mass Hunger In Nigeria” (June 4, 2022), I suggested some measures that could promote food security, curb food scarcity, and check the cattle herders who have been ravaging farmlands across the country.  I suggested retrieving silos for strategic food reserves from the National Commodity Exchange that leased them and urged the government to assist farmers with fertilisers, chemicals and quality seeds.

    The president said such inputs had been supplied. Where are those farmers?  How much was distributed to them, and in which states?  Many of us are farmers and we have not seen nor benefitted from the farm inputs,

    Where are the 10,000 tractors, about 500,000 equipment and 623 mechanical services centres in the 774 local government areas of the country, which were supposed to create 100,000 from the $1.2 billion agricultural loan obtained by the federal government in 2020? 

    As food scarcity, prices and instability worsened, President Tinubu declared on July 13, 2023 an “Emergency on Agriculture and Food Security.”   The effects have been minimal.  

    The Federal Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, in March announced that $900 million had been secured to purchase tractors and equipment for the country. He did not say whether it was the same money loaned to Nigeria in 2020 or it was new money for the same tractors and equipment and the proposed 623 service centres.

     All that we heard in the president’s broadcast is that tractors and planters from the USA, Belarus and Brazil have been ordered and are on their way.

    The equipment may not be able to help immediately to provide food or mitigate the prevailing hunger. However, they might be useful during the forthcoming dry season farming and also for the 2025 planting season.

    Since the escalating price of fuel has a ripple and cascading effects on the cost of living, President Tinubu should have focussed more on measures that would help to reduce fuel prices by way of a trade-off which would involve utilising the savings from reducing the cost of governance to subsidise the cost of fuel, particularly PMS and Diesel.

    Read Also: 12 burnt to death, four injured in Lagos-Ibadan expressway crash

     A similar trade-off could be attained if the president could suspend one or two of some long-term programmes or projects so that money voted for them could be used to subsidise fuel in the short run while waiting for the Dangote and the country’s refineries to come on stream.

    State governors should demonstrate that they are bearing their share of the burden of reducing hunger by increasing agricultural reduction instead of relying on federal palliatives and by cutting down on their obscene consumption.  Most of them live like emperors, with no regard for the poverty surrounding them.

     The president had earlier in the year appealed to them to make 150,000 hectares of farmland available for food production.  The wet season planting is almost over and not much appreciable work has been carried out in this respect.  

    He should set up a ‘Follow-up Action Committee’ to monitor and assess the performance of state governments in executing projects funded by the Federal Government.  Where it is established that the funds were not expended judiciously, the defaulting state should have their quarterly allocation deducted at source.

    Ending hunger, reducing the cost of living and the humongous cost of governance, and eliminating poverty as demanded by the protesters should be a collective responsibility of all governments, federal, state and local authorities.  The burden must be shared equitably.

    It should not be of President Tinubu’s albatross.

    •Dr Lewu, is Nigeria’s former ambassador to Brazil, Paraguay and Bolivia.

  • Protests: Issues around the issues

    Protests: Issues around the issues

    • By Magnus Onyibe

    The four days of protests before President Bola Tinubu’s national address wreaked havoc on the nation so much so that our beleaguered country and its struggling economy suffered further damage, with about 13 lives lost and properties worth billions of naira destroyed. The situation was so dire that the presumed convener of the protest, popular lawyer, Olu Adegboruwa, reportedly expressed regret: “I appeal to the protesters to withdraw from their various protest grounds and suspend the protests immediately and indefinitely to give room for meaningful dialogue and engagement with the government.”

    Five years ago, I called for a paradigm shift in our development strategy from merely fighting corruption to combating poverty and reforming policies that hinder development. This call was ignored by the previous administration, which continued its anti-corruption efforts without investing enough effort in combating poverty. The efforts devoted to solely tackling corruption ultimately proved ineffective, as reflected in Nigeria’s stagnant corruption perception index, while the fight against graft damaged the economy and the country’s image. As a result, the economy and the lives of Nigerians deteriorated, leaving the current administration with the task of alleviating the masses’ frustration after their painful experiences under the former regime.

    Given this background, President Bola Tinubu, who promised change, was expected to quickly deliver the benefits of democracy. However, the delayed realization of promised economic reforms, which have had a severe impact on the general populace, has made the Renewed Hope Agenda seem like an illusion. That is why many Nigerians have been anxiously waiting for a drastic improvement in their conditions and becoming impatient as respite is not manifesting in their expected timeline.

    Unfortunately, this expectation persists despite being unrealistic. The reality is that it is wishful thinking to believe that Nigeria’s current economic problems, caused by poor policies over the past four to five decades that were supposed to be ad-hoc but became entrenched and permanent, would disappear instantly. When President Tinubu finally addressed the nation on the fourth day of the protests, which had turned riotous, he outlined the steps taken to help Nigeria escape poverty.

    Read Also: Hunger protest: North tolerated too much poverty, corruption – Shettima

    Despite outlining the specific measures, some protesters and leaders from the main opposition parties, the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) and Labour Party (LP), were not appeased. They argued that the broadcast, despite its calls for calm and dialogue, was self-serving. Fortunately, the nationwide tension subsided, and peace has returned to most parts of the country. This may be because the genuine intentions of the protesters were overshadowed by those with a regime-change agenda, as evidenced by minors waving Russian flags during the protests. The use of minors to display these flags is likely a tactic to avoid prosecution, as the 1999 constitution as under-aged individuals cannot be charged for criminal actions.

    During the four days of unrest, three global events paralleled the protests in Nigeria.

    The first event is the ongoing civil disobedience in the United Kingdom, fuelled by misinformation spread via social media, similar to how social media was used during Nigeria’s 2020 #EndSARS protests and is now driving the #EndBadGovernance protests. This disobedience was sparked by the tragic stabbing of three children in Southport by a 17-year-old, Axel Rudakubana, who was wrongly identified by far-right activists as an immigrant.

    Although UK authorities classify this as an anti-immigration crisis, I argue it is xenophobia targeting not just blacks but Muslims and non-Caucasian foreigners. This attitude mirrors the xenophobic violence in South Africa, where locals attacked the businesses and homes of successful black immigrants. It is also similar to the events that happened in Nigeria in the mid-1980s when Ghanaians were expelled in an anti-immigration crisis dubbed “Ghana-Must-Go.” A few years ago, Ghana retaliated by antagonizing Nigerians doing business and living there, accusing them of dominating commerce.

    These scenarios illustrate that global poverty crises are triggering protests against authorities for either implementing poverty-inducing policies or being lax with immigration policies that allow immigrants, legal or otherwise, to take local jobs.

    Ironically, just as Nigerians are marching against hunger, Britons are rioting under the guise of anti-immigration sentiments against Muslims, Arabs, and non-Caucasians, whom they believe are taking their jobs and corrupting their culture. This intolerance is both sad and disappointing.

    Surprisingly, Britons may not even accept legal immigrants, despite these skilled workers filling gaps left by the UK’s exit from the European Union. This situation highlights global crises of various kinds, with world leaders still struggling to find solutions.

    These events underscore a growing global intolerance towards foreign nationals and frustration with leaders’ policies on socioeconomic issues and immigration across the world.

    Ultimately, citizens are expressing their dissatisfaction through protests and at the ballot box, as seen in the recent violence in the UK and France, following elections that enabled far-right gains. This expression of discontent is a hallmark of democracy, which guarantees freedom of speech, so protests against government in Nigeria is not an exception. But forceful regime change which has been established as the sinister motive of some of the protesters in Nigeria is condemnable and thankfully and commendably, Nigerian security agencies gathered enough intelligence to figure it out and nipped it in the bud.

    Compared to the British police’s reliance on technology and surveillance cameras to manage riots, the Nigerian police’s lack of such infrastructure has led to accusations of unprofessional conduct. However, the security agencies argue that their harsh response was due to a hidden agenda among protesters, aiming for regime change through subterfuge, which they were duty-bound to prevent as earlier stated.

    In fact, it was rather disconcerting and surprising that the suspicion of a regime change became evident when protesters were seen waving Russian flags. This act confirmed intelligence reports, leading the Inspector General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun, to announce that the military was on standby in case the police were overwhelmed. This position was echoed by the Chief of Defence Staff, Army General Chris Musa, in a subsequent press conference.

    Although the death of even one Nigerian arising from engaging in street protests is unacceptable, the conduct of the Nigerian police, especially the commissioners in Edo, Rivers, and Lagos states, is commendable as they worked hard to gain the trust and confidence of the protesters, making the protests in these locations less destructive.

    As the dust from the imbroglio or temporary madness that engulfed our country resulting in an orgy of bloodletting settle, it is hoped that both the administration and the masses have learned lessons from the catastrophic fallouts.

    As a stanza in our national anthem enjoins us “…though tribe and tongue may differ in brotherhood we stand”. We should all do well to imbibe the wording in the national anthem which are critical ethos that we should operationalise as good citizens of our great nation, Nigeria. Our subsidiary fights should be against religious bigotry and zealotry as well as against ethnic jingoism which crept into the agenda of the protesters in the nasty incident in certain parts of our country, particularly in Lagos State.

    Commendably Lagos State governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu distanced the state government from the xenophobic outburst just as the President Tinubu has done in his broadcast demonstrating that there is zero tolerance for hate in our county.

    As Nigerians, we must all rise up against politics of excluding any members of any particular ethnic sections of our country from living in any part or being in the leadership of our country.

    •Onyibe, an entrepreneur, public policy analyst, author and democracy advocate sent this piece from Lagos. 

  • Group condemns destruction, looting of property during hardship protests

    Group condemns destruction, looting of property during hardship protests

    The Center for Peace, Transparency and Accountability (CPTA) has condemned the recent spate of violence and vandalism that accompanied the hardship protests in some states.

    Executive Director of CPTA, Comrade Patrick Ogheneyero, urged the Federal Government to take immediate and effective measures to curtail the civil unrest in the country.

    Ogheneyero urged the protesters to shun violence and embrace peaceful means of expressing their grievances.

    According to ED, dialogue remained the most effective and constructive approach to resolving conflicts and achieving lasting solutions.

    He said: “It is deeply disheartening to witness hoodlums exploiting the ongoing nationwide hunger protests to engage in the destruction of critical infrastructure and the looting of properties especially in states like Kano, Kaduna and Plateau just to mention but few. Such actions not only undermine the genuine grievances of the protesters but also inflict further hardship on our already suffering communities.

    Read Also: Troops swoop on oil thieves in Niger Delta, clamp down on 13 illegal refineries

    “Another particular concern is the disturbing trend of some protesters flying and waving Russian flags, while calling on President Vladimir Putin to intervene in Nigeria’s affairs and labelling our beloved nation as a failed state. This act is not only a disservice to our nation but also constitutes treason and is tantamount to felony. It is imperative for all Nigerians to remember their patriotic duty and to refrain from actions that compromise our nation’s sovereignty and integrity.

    “Engaging in violent protests as a means of expressing grievances can have profound implications, both immediate and long-term, for individuals, communities, and nations. While the intent behind such actions is often rooted in genuine frustration and a desire for change, the outcomes can be complex and far-reaching.

    “At this juncture, the CPTA urges the federal government to take immediate and effective measures to curtail the ongoing unrest.

  • Protests: Youths present charter of demands to Plateau govt

    Protests: Youths present charter of demands to Plateau govt

    A coalition of youths in Plateau, on Saturday,  presented its charter of demands to the state governor, Caleb Mutfwang in Jos, for onward transmission to President Bola Tinubu.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), reports that Plateau residents, largely youths, matched on major streets of Jos as part of the ongoing nationwide protests.

    The protests were later hijacked by some hoodlums who began to loot and destroy public and private property.

    The situation forced the State government to impose a 24-hour curfew on Jos-Bukuru metropolis.

    Presenting the charter on behalf of the youths, their representative,  Mr Sam Ode, said that the demands required the  input of both the state government and the Federal Government.

    ”For the state government, we demand  an immediate cut in the cost of governance. We also demand explanation on how the various palliatives and funding from the federal government are being expended.

    ”We also call on the state government to implement the minimum wage recently signed into law by the president,  and reduce the school of fees of tertiary institutions.

    ”For the federal government, we call on the president to end corruption, reverse the pump price of fuel to N300,  and also reverse the hike in electricity tariif,” Ode said.

    He also  urged  the  Federal  Government to cut cost of governance, re-open all national borders, and  embark  on judicial reforms.

    ”I want our leaders to know that these demands are the will of the people toward a pathway for sustainable development. We are not rebeling against the government, ”he said.

    Responding, Mutfwang, who thanked the protesters for being peaceful throughout the protests, promised to transmit the demands to the president.

    The governor promised to enable active participation of youths in his government, adding that the government would be open to legitimate criticism.

    He said that he would  be transparent  and  accountable  in distributing the palliatives from the Federal Government to Plateau people.

    Read Also: Hustle, bustle as Kaduna, Kano, Katsina residents shun 1m man protests

    ”We are doing a lot  to boost agriculture, helathcare services, tourism, education, public transportation, sports and ease of doing business to improve the local economy.

    ”In some areas, we will need the support of the private sector to end poverty and hunger, and actualise the Plateau of our dreams.

     ”I will transmit your demands to the president by next week, but all I ask of you is to be patient and support us to succeed.

    ”We will continue to provide quality leadership to the people, and I thank you for conducting yourselves  peacefully throughout the protests, ”Mutfwang said.

    (NAN)

  • Hustle, bustle as Kaduna, Kano, Katsina residents shun 1m man protests

    Hustle, bustle as Kaduna, Kano, Katsina residents shun 1m man protests

    It was a beehive of socioeconomic activities on Saturday as the residents of Kaduna, Kano and Katsina States shunned the one-million-man nationwide protests.

    Correspondents of the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in the three states learnt that hordes of people were seen busy undertaking their routine public and private activities.

    It was gathered that markets, motor parks, supermarkets and other economic activities were going on unfettered, oblivious of the proposed protests.

    Commercial motorists and motorcyclists were also seen busy conveying passengers to and from their various destinations.

    Security agents were also seen patrolling major streets, protcting critical state and national assets.

    “We have no issue with anybody as the people are going about their activities lawfully,” a security source that sought for anonymity told NAN along Ahmadu Bello Way, Kaduna.

     Meanwhile, the Kaduna State Government said unverified  processions were  not permitted in the state for reasons of public safety and security.

     The Commissioner for Internal Security and Home Affairs, Mr Samuel Aruwan, gave the warning in a statement issued on Saturday in Kaduna.

     Aruwan said, ” Criminals disguising as protesters will not get chance to unleash terror, loot properties, Kaduna Security Council warns

    -“The Kaduna State Security Council under the leadership of Gov.  Uba Sani, has reviewed the present security situation arising from the existing 6pm to 8am curfew, and other issues pertaining to public safety.

    “Based on this review, the security council hereby announces that criminal elements disguising as protesters, with the intent to generate unrest in the state, will not be spared.”

    He said the council recognised the fundamental rights of the citizens to freedom of expression, lawful assembly and other constitutional rights enshrined in the 1999 Constitution as amended.

    Aruwan added that nevertheless, the security forces cannot permit a situation wherein criminals masquerade as protesters to loot and vandalise public, private properties and unleash terror on innocent citizens as experienced on Aug 1- 5.

     According to him, processions not verified and cleared by the security agencies, therefore, remained prohibited in the light of the public security considerations highlighted.

    “The ugly events of Aug 1 to 5,  are clear indicators that criminals are pursuing an agenda to plunge the state into chaos, and are ready to camouflage these designs with otherwise genuine protests.

    “Available intelligence from the reviewed period also shows the grim focus of these forces in herding children and impressionable individuals into their dark schemes.

    “The consequences of these plans, if allowed to flourish, are better imagined. The Kaduna State Government and security forces will not stand by and allow an anti-state agenda to run unchecked, ” Aruwan said.

     He said it was worth reiterating that criminals masquerading as protesters would not be permitted to wreak havoc.

     “Finally, the citizens are enjoined to continue to observe the 6pm to 8am curfew and report any incendiary activity to the Security Operations Room on: 0903 400 0060, 0817 018 9999, “Aruwan said

    A NAN Correspondent in Kafanchan also learnt that there was no sign of any protest as the residents went about their normal activities.

    However, security operatives were stationed in strategic locations in and around the town.

    In Zaria, people were also seen going about their normal businesses as there was no presence or any activities of the protest.

    There was also the  presence of  security personnel at strategic locations within the metropolis.

    However, the increased number of security personnel at the PZ area was due to the passing out parade at the Nigeria Military School, (NMS).

    NAN also observed that some of the residents had gathered  to offer a special prayers at the Palladam area against the cessation of rain (drought) being experienced in the area.

    In Kano, some of the residents of Kano metropolitan local government areas have expressed their decision not to participate again in any form of protests in the state.

    Alhaji Abdulkadir Yakubu of Chiranchi area, Gwale LGA, stated that he has instructed members of his immediate family and those close to him to ignore the protesters’ calls and shun them.

    He cited the lack of achievements from the protests, which he believed have only resulted in hunger and destruction of public buildings.

    Similarly, Alhaji Ibrahim Faruk of  farm centre, Tarauni Local Government Area, expressed disapproval of the protests, stating that they have only brought backwardness, loss of lives and destruction.

    Hajiya Binta Ishaku of Fagge Local Government Area called for increased deployment of military personnel in the metropolis to protect shops and businesses from looters.

    She emphasised that the protests were not the solution, as people were forced to stay indoors without achieving anything.

    Mr Royal James, a trader on Enugu Road, urged the protest organisers to engage in dialogue with the government to resolve the crisis.

    He believed that dialogue was a more effective means of addressing grievances than protests.

    In a related development, commercial activities were gradually resuming in all the metropolitan local government areas of Kano, marking a return to normalcy amidst a peaceful atmosphere.

    NAN learnt that in spite of the ongoing curfew from 6 am to 6 pm, the city was experiencing a sense of calmness.

    A Correspondent of  NAN in the city reports that markets such as Sabon Gari, Singer Market, Kantin Gwari, and Ahmadu Bello Way have seen a significant pickup in activities, with shops now open for daily business.

    Commercial activities were also ongoing without any reported security threats.

    Police and military personnel have also been deployed in strategic locations, maintaining order and preventing potential disturbances.

    In Katsina, the organisers of the protests have complied with the order issued by the Police and the state government that banned all forms of protests and unlawful assembly across the state.

    The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO),  ASP Abubakar Aliyu, said that the order was still in force across the state.

    He said that the measure was aimed at preventing further escalation of violence, vandalism and looting of private and public properties, as well as maintaining public safety and security.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that property estimated at millions of Naira were vandalised by the miscreants who hijacked the protests during its first day.

    The government imposed a 24-hour curfew on Dutsin-ma Local Government Area for some days, and 7pm to 7am in the remaining 33 local government areas to address the situation.

    However, the curfew in Dutsin-ma was reviewed to 7pm to 7am, like in the other local governments.

    The PPRO said that the police remained committed to enforcing the ban with a view to restoring peace across the state.

    “We call on the good people of Katsina State to continue to cooperate with the police and other security agencies in this effort.

    “Your understanding and compliance are crucial to maintaining the safety and security of the state,” he said

    Aliyu also called on parents and guardians to caution their children and wards against engaging in acts that were in conflict with the law.

    Read Also: Protests: GAC members pay solidarity visit to Sanwo-Olu, hails governor for peace in Lagos

    He urged the public to remain calm and go about their lawful activities within the confines of the law.

    “We will not hesitate to take decisive action against anyone who violates this ban. Let us work together to ensure peace and stability in Katsina State,” he warned.

    NAN reports that the residents of the state were now busy conducting their business activities peacefully.

    Security agencies were also patrolling the state capital to curtail the possible breakdown of law and order.

    The situation was the same in other local governments like Daura, Malumfashi and Kankia, among others, where the people were busy undertaking their lawful activities without any let or hindrance.

    (NAN)

  • Excess Van sues for peace amidst protests

    Excess Van sues for peace amidst protests

    Nigerian singer and songwriter Kingsley Chibueze Eze aka Excess Van, has called for peace amidst ongoing protests in the northern parts of the country.

    The musician urged demonstrators to express their grievances without resorting to vandalism and destruction of property.

    Reacting to reports of widespread vandalization by alleged protesters, Excess Van emphasised the importance of maintaining peace and respecting fellow Nigerians’ properties. “Destroying our own communities and looting businesses will not solve the issues we face.

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    “We must find a way to voice our concerns constructively and focus on holding the government accountable.”

    He further implored protesters to channel their energies toward productive dialogue and non-violent actions. “The hardship we are experiencing is real, but the solution does not lie in causing harm to each other. We need to stand united and demand better from our leaders without tearing down what we have built together,” Excess Van added.

  • Crucial points to note on the protests

    Crucial points to note on the protests

    The protests against rising cost of living which started 8 days ago is wading out, and normalcy is returning to most states across Nigeria. Therefore, I wish to take stock of the protests and note some learning points going forward as we evolve as a polity in Nigeria.

    While there is a growing number of complaints and lamentations regarding the rising cost of living in Nigeria, opposition political parties and figures use the opportunity to score political points. As a patriot, mine is to be a sounding board devoid of political connotation for our leaders at all strata.

    In my opinion, the volume and reach of the complaints is beyond opposition parties ranting. This point is so important so that the leadership of this Country will not play into the hands of the 5th columnists, and opposition political parties. I advise that government should objectively, compassionately, and practically address the issues of the rising cases of hunger and poverty with a view to proactively and constructively engaging Nigerians. Because the important people are the innocent and good citizens of this Country. I will maintain a moderate stance to say that, going forward, government should be more proactive and in curtailing deteriorating situations in line with the genuine agitations of Nigerians. To this extent, two critical stakeholders should play key roles, i.e., the State governments and the National Assembly. We have 469 legislators at the National Assembly that are direct representatives of various constituents covering the entire 774 local governments across Nigeria. We have 36 State Executive Governors and the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory that are saddled with the mandates delivering good governance at sub nationals. Therefore, I humbly suggest that we should be continually, and proactively speaking directly to Nigerians with empathy on what Nigerians are going through and the activities of governments and impacts that have been made thus far. Indeed, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been consistently providing interventions to all the states and FCT to the tune of about N1Trillion in the past 1 year since he resumed as President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. This is in addition to the fact that in the past year the FAAC has shared about N1Trillion with states collecting about triple what they were receiving in the past administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, which is due to the removal of fuel subsidy. I dare say most of the interventions to contain the exacerbating cost of living crisis have been by Mr. President from the federal level, with about 3 critical interventions within spaces on months.

    Accordingly, I expect the handlers of Mr. President to articulate the impacts of such interventions in ways and manners that will clearly show the level of efforts that have been put while highlighting tangible outcomes and impacts. The State governors also need to do same, especially for State Governors that have been doing so much for their people.

    However, I urge that in speaking to the citizens, leaders or their representatives should speak with respect and empathy, and to speak with the consciousness and demonstration of the understanding that they actually know what people are going through. Not all the people that complain are against the governments (at federal and state levels). A large section of the people complaining are also people that voted for and support President Tinubu or the Governors at State levels. So let us not make the mistake of speaking in a ways and manners that suggest that anybody that complains of hardship in Nigeria is against the government. This is will set government in a negative perception trajectory which will not augur well for the much needed confidence and trust of citizens. It is important to take honest feedbacks of citizens and process them for better performance of government. Engagements by governments should also be strategic and impactful.

    Furthermore, in my opinion, the decision by the House of Representatives to donate 50% of their monthly salaries for 6 months is not good enough. If any legislator wants to make such sacrifice, he/ she should take the money and share directly to their constituents. It is disingenuous to ask that deductions be made from their salaries. They can share whatever that want to sacrifice directly with their constituents as their own efforts to provide succor for their people. More importantly they should also be regularly and consistently engaging their constituents directly, speaking to them on their legislative efforts and the impacts on their communities. They should also continually take feedbacks and act accordingly.

    In addition, I call for all hands on deck at this crucial moment in Nigeria. I expect that in the coming weeks people at position of power and governance from the presidency down to the local government level; will demonstrate compassion and empathy in the way they and their families speak and the way they behave, so that citizens will feel that the leaders are also with them during these trying times. I dare say that there some officials of this administration at federal and state levels that are not helping their leadership by their behaviors at events like weddings, etc, by display of wanton affluence and luxury in the midst of hunger, abject poverty, strife and insecurity. There is need for immediate change of such callous, insensitive and irresponsible behaviors which actually undermine the efforts of President Tinubu’s mission of delivering good governance. There is the need for display of maturity and decorum by senior government officials in the executive and legislative arms of government. I also expect display of high sense of respect and decorum in the utterances of political leaders and their staff. There is also the need for circumspection in strategic communications. Let us not forget that over 130 million of Nigerians are multi-dimensionally poor. So it is important that the narrative of government functionaries should be clear and their behaviors should align with the narrative of Mr. President. Because unless the behavior of government officials aligns with the narrative and policies of Mr. President, the citizens will not trust the government and therefore will continue to be agitated. When we tell citizens to continue to be patient, then government officials and political leaders should also demonstrate prudence, be frugal and respectful to citizens. 

    I am speaking with all sense of humility and responsibility as some of us will continue to speak the truth to power, not out of disrespect or hatred for government, but because it is in loving the government or our Country that we speak the truth. It is on record that efforts are being put in place by government but the key questions are how impactful have been the efforts? Indeed, the socio-economic challenges we are facing in Nigeria is also as a result of ongoing global economic challenges. Suffice it to say that bad governance by previous successive administrations further complicated our situation in Nigeria. Indeed, things should be better.

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    Moreover, my words of caution, coming out of the planned protests is that government should be proactive, practical and pragmatic in dealing with our socio-economic challenges. I worry when political leadership blame all agitations and uprisings to the machinations of opposition parties or  5th columnists. The danger is the risk of bottling up genuine frustrations that may result is building desperations that could lead to combustible “unplanned” protests that may be incontrollable with disastrous consequences for the leaders and citizens. We should reflect and draw lessons from what triggered the first and second Arab spring, the downfall of President Omar Al-Bashir of Sudan, the Sri Lanka incidence of 2022, the Kenya episode is which still fragile. And as if that is not enough, just 2 days ago the President of Bangladesh had to resign and escape out of the Country with the collapse of her administration and the entire parliament. I am making reference to those scenarios to serve as wake-up call to the possibility of what we do not wish to happen if we do not do the needful as at when we should.

    Meanwhile, it is worthy of note that the outcome of violent protest will always leave behind horror that take years or decades to overcome. The deaths, injuries, destruction of critical infrastructure, loss of properties, life-long trauma, and destruction of social structure and system, are better imagined. Be that as it is; it is very important to note and process the fact that it is difficult to control the thinking of a man or woman whose child/ children have not eaten for days. Or the state of mind of man or woman whose family member is in critical health condition with no financial capacity or facility to cater for the loved one(s), as they watch them die, while the government officials that tell them to be patient are throwing parties and publically showering their family members of expensive lavish gifts.

    Emotional intelligence by top government functionaries will be a critical success factor for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, because emotional intelligence will enable situational awareness and result-oriented strategy, policy formulation and implementation.

    I hope that, the reality of the state of mind of our people vis-à-vis the brutal socio-economic situation of Nigeria will not be lost in government’s fixation on the machinations of 5th columnists, cynics, and opposition parties and figures.