The Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) has issued a statement urging the organizers of the planned #EndBadGovernance nationwide protests scheduled to commence from 1 to 10 August to cancel the plan.
The President of the NBA, Yakubu Maikyau, expressed concerns about the potential economic and security risks associated with the protest and implored the organizers to reconsider their decision.
In his statement on Monday, Mr. Maikyau, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, highlighted the historical tendency for mass protests to be infiltrated by unscrupulous elements who perpetrate criminal activities, ultimately transforming what started as a peaceful protest into a violent riot.
While acknowledging the nation’s significant challenges and recognizing the people’s right to express dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs, he cautioned against potential manipulation of the protest by external entities with malicious intentions.
According to his statement, there may be outside influences instigating and endorsing the protest, alluding to the possibility of hidden agendas at play. He appealed to Nigerians, especially those planning to partake in the scheduled street protest, to reconsider their stance and carefully evaluate the potential consequences of engaging in such activities on the country’s security, economy, and overall well-being.
It is imperative to acknowledge the potential ramifications of civil unrest and the ensuing chaos that could result from such events. It is without a doubt that nations currently embroiled in conflict are experiencing profound devastation and destruction. The mere thought of such experiences is unbearable and must be vehemently opposed.
Instead of resorting to protests, we urge the government, protest organizers, and supporters to engage in open, honest discussions to promptly address the grievances of the people. It is essential to establish mechanisms for regular dialogue between the government and the populace, with set timelines for the implementation of specific actions as needed.
We call upon members of the National and State Houses of Assembly to actively communicate with their constituents to address their concerns. Furthermore, we recommend the convening of a National Security Summit, where current and former military, police, intelligence, and other law enforcement officials can reassess our security situation and propose viable solutions.
Traditional institutions, religious leaders, and civil society organizations should also be involved in this process, both in the dialogue and monitoring of implementation efforts. Numerous citizens are currently experiencing difficulties in the country. There is a prevailing discontent among Nigerians regarding the government’s inadequate management of the repercussions of its economic policies, resulting in a high inflation rate and a general increase in the cost of living.
