Atedo Peterside, the President of the ANAP Foundation and the organizer of the GoNigeria Movement has made a heartfelt appeal to the protesters to end their demonstrations. He believes the protesters have successfully conveyed their message and that it is now time to bring the protests to a close.
In a recent message posted on X, Peterside commended the protesters for their dedication and for challenging the misconception that young people are not engaged in political matters or concerned about good governance. He pointed out that the recent protests have clearly demonstrated the political awareness and activism of Nigeria’s youth.
Peterside noted that ongoing protests can be difficult for poor Nigerians, who might not be able to sustain such actions for an extended period. He emphasized that the impressive turnout of the protests has already made a significant impact. According to Peterside, the large number of people participating has made a strong impression on many and has caught the attention of the federal government. He assured that the government is listening and has taken notice of the demands being made.
Peterside urged the protesters to consider ending their demonstrations, especially since prolonged protests can be susceptible to infiltration by individuals with less noble intentions. He referenced his past experiences from the #EndSars protests, where he warned that extended street actions could attract troublemakers.
Peterside suggested that the protesters have already achieved a lot and that continuing the protests for too long could lead to problems. He also reminded everyone that the government has already started responding, with recent statements from the President indicating that the concerns of the protesters are being heard.
He further advised that if the government does not take substantial steps to reduce the cost of governance, cut wasteful spending, and lead by example, the protesters should consider re-strategizing. Peterside believes that if the government fails to address these issues, there would be a need to regroup and possibly resume the protest actions. His message is one of hope and encouragement, calling for a balanced approach to ensure that the voices of the people continue to be heard while also maintaining a practical and sustainable approach to advocacy.
Peterside expressed his gratitude to the protesters for their efforts and dedication. He acknowledged the challenges that come with sustained demonstrations and the potential risks involved. His call to end the protests is based on a belief that the message has been effectively communicated, and now it is time to move forward with a strategy that ensures continued progress and engagement with the government. Peterside’s final appeal is for unity and resilience, encouraging the protesters to keep pushing for change while being mindful of the practical aspects of their activism.
