Former presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Mr. Rabiu Kwankwaso, has expressed support for protests as a democratic right but questioned the timing amidst current national tensions.
In a Saturday address, Kwankwaso lamented Nigeria’s current state, attributing the country’s hardships to missed opportunities and poor leadership since 2007. He urged Nigerian youth to show restraint and emphasized that the ballot box remains the most effective and peaceful means for enacting change in a democracy.
Reacting to the planned nationwide protests set for August 1 against economic hardships, Kwankwaso noted the widespread involvement, including women and students, in the planned 10-day demonstration. This significant movement has prompted direct appeals from the government.
Kwankwaso warned that protests often leave lasting scars and advised protesters to focus their efforts on more effective means of transformation. “It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I share my thoughts on the current situation in Nigeria. We found ourselves in avoidable hardship because our leaders missed some steps since 2007,” he said.
He continued, “However, there is always room for correction and setting the country on the right track for economic development, prosperity, and better welfare of citizens. This could be achieved through ensuring good governance, respect for the rule of law, transparency, and accountability.”
Kwankwaso highlighted several crises he attributes to federal interference, including chieftaincy matters in Kano State, the impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political unrest in Rivers State, sabotage of the Aliko Dangote refinery, controversies surrounding the SAMOA agreement, conflicts within the APC leadership, and widespread insecurity. He called on the country’s leaders to address these challenges.
Addressing the nation, he said, “Today, I speak to you not just as an elder and a concerned citizen but as someone who deeply believes in the power and potential of our great nation. The recent calls for protests against bad governance resonate with me, as they reflect our collective frustration and yearning for a better Nigeria.”
Kwankwaso urged Nigerians to support the government while remaining patient. He stressed that if the current government fails, citizens will have the opportunity to vote for change in the next election. “Our collective frustration with bad governance has reached a boiling point, and the urge to protest is strong,” he acknowledged, but added, “As an elder and patriotic Nigerian, I share your concerns and your desire for change.”
He warned of the consequences of national protests, emphasizing that while protests are a fundamental democratic right, they often lead to unforeseen and dire consequences. “The tragic events of the past have shown us that protests can escalate into violence, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread chaos,” he said. “The repercussions of such actions extend far beyond the immediate moment, leaving scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us.”
Kwankwaso’s message comes at a critical time as Nigeria stands at a crossroads, facing significant economic and social challenges.
