Amidst political unrest in Nigeria, the protests planned for October 1 are sparking intense debate among different stakeholders in society. While some groups, such as traders and some residents, strongly reject the protests, others, such as the Arewa youth and a former Niger Delta warlord, Godday Smith, are advocating dialogue as the preferred means to resolve national problems.
There is uncertainty over whether the planned protests, which are said to coincide with Nigeria’s independence celebrations, will actually take place. While protest organizers want to highlight critical issues facing the country, the potential risks associated with the protests are also being highlighted.
Traders, marketers and shop owners in the federal capital, Abuja, are expressing wariness about the protests, fearing disruption to their businesses and threats to public safety. They warned the protesters not to approach their businesses, fearing vandalism and theft by uncontrolled elements taking advantage of such protests.
In a similar context but more focused on dialogue, the Arewa Youth for Peaceful Coexistence group stressed the importance of seeking constructive solutions through discussions. The President, Comrade Mark Ogah, stressed the need to prioritise peace, progress and stability in a difficult economic context. He warned of the negative consequences that protests could have on the economy, jobs and livelihoods of citizens.
As for the former Niger Delta warlord, Godday Smith, he encouraged former militants of the Presidential Amnesty Programme not to participate in the planned nationwide protests. He stressed the importance of peace to foster development and called on the former agitators to respect the agreements reached with the Federal Government.
In the face of these differences of opinion, tensions are rising as the day of the protests approaches, as security forces, such as the Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr. Olarenwaju Ishola, warn potential protesters against any unlawful acts during the planned Independence Day rallies. This warning echoes previous instances where protests have been repressed with firmness, raising concerns over human rights and excessive use of force.
In this tense environment, where voices of one side clash with another, the call for dialogue and moderation resonates as a note of hope for finding peaceful and constructive solutions to Nigeria’s current challengesThe search for a balance between the expression of legitimate discontent and the preservation of peace and stability thus becomes a crucial issue for the future of the country.