In a recent press conference held by the Concerned Civil Society Organizations in Kogi State, they addressed the recent calls for national protests in Nigeria. The coalition, comprising over thirty youth groups, women’s organizations, artisans, and civil society groups, expressed their concern over the potential risks associated with participating in such demonstrations.
The organization acknowledged the constitutional right of citizens to protest but emphasized the need for caution, citing the possibility of hijacking and subsequent destruction of lives and property, as witnessed during the End SARS protests. They raised concerns about the lack of identifiable leadership behind the current protest calls, warning against following “faceless individuals.”
The coalition urged for a balanced perspective on the current economic challenges, noting that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been in office for just over a year. They advocated for allowing more time for the administration to implement changes and address the nation’s economic difficulties.
While recognizing the severity of Nigeria’s economic situation, the organization proposed constructive engagement with the government as an alternative to protests. They emphasized the potential negative impact of nationwide protests on Nigeria’s already fragile economy, drawing parallels with countries like Sudan, Libya, and Yemen, which have faced prolonged instability following civil unrest.
The Concerned Civil Society Organizations in Kogi State also outlined several key areas for immediate government action:
1. Addressing the rising inflation rate, which has increased from 22.8% in 2023 to 34.2% in June 2024
2. Tackling insecurity across the nation
3. Ensuring food security by protecting farmlands
4. Reversing increased tuition fees in higher education institutions
5. Addressing the hike in electricity tariffs
6. Revitalizing oil refineries to achieve optimal production
7. Reducing the cost of governance at all levels
The organization commended the efforts of Kogi State Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo in prioritizing agriculture and security investments. They suggested that if other states follow suit by focusing more on production rather than consumption, it could contribute to economic recovery.
In conclusion, the coalition called for patience and constructive dialogue, emphasizing the need for careful consideration of the potential consequences of widespread protests on Nigeria’s fragile socio-economic fabric.