By Sumaila Ogbaje
The Arewa House Centre for Research and Historical Documentation, says the planned nationwide protest will have potential negative impacts on nation’s security, stability and development.
This is contained in a Communiqué issued at the end of a One-Day Stakeholders’ Roundtable on the State of the Nation, themed, “Alternative Paths to Peaceful Co-existence and Sustainable Development in Nigeria.”
The communiqué made available to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Thursday, said the roundtable was held recently in Kaduna, in light of the prevailing social circumstances in the country.
It said that challenges like hyperinflation, unemployment, and resource scarcity, have heightened tensions within communities, adding that significant segments of the nation were preparing for the anticipated nationwide protests scheduled for August.
This, according to the centre, has raised considerable concern among many regarding the potential for unrest to exacerbate those existing challenges, leading to unintended consequences for the society.
“In response to these concerns, the Arewa House convened a one-day roundtable with representatives from various sectors, including religious leaders, youth groups, students’ unions, trade unions, traditional leaders and state government representatives.
“Also included are the security agencies, academicians, opinion influencers, and media organisations.
“The discussion aimed to explore alternative paths to peaceful co-existence and sustainable development in Nigeria.
“After extensive deliberations, we hereby present the following communiqué, which seeks to address the potential negative impacts of civil unrest while affirming the fundamental rights of individuals to express their grievances peacefully.
“While we recognise the fundamental right to peaceful protest, we express deep concerns regarding the potential negative impacts this protest may have on our nation’s security, stability, and development,’’ it said.
The Arewa centre said the stakeholders carefully considered the experiences and lessons learned from similar protests around the world, including the crises in Sudan, Yemen, Syria, Venezuela, Hong Kong, and Myanmar.
It said that they acknowledge the devastating consequences that prolonged conflicts and humanitarian crises could have on the lives and well-being of the citizens.
“We are equally aware of the societal disruptions that can arise from protests that escalate into violence and unrest.
“The experiences of these nations illustrate how civil strife can lead to loss of life, widespread displacement, economic decline, and the erosion of social cohesion,’’ it added.
The communiqué recommended that the Federal and State Governments should urgently implement programmes aimed at addressing the root causes of public discontent, such as unemployment, poverty, and lack of social services.
It also urged the government to as a matter of urgency, release all those arrested in connection with the proposed protests to earn the government respect and helped to diminish protesters’ momentum.
They called on the government and relevant stakeholders to explore alternative avenues, such as town hall meetings, public consultations, and policy reforms, to address the grievances and demands of the citizens.
They also urged all concerned parties, including government representatives, civil society organisations, and citizens, to engage in open and inclusive dialogue to address the underlying issues and concerns that may drive protests.
The centre also proposed the implementation of youth empowerment programmes that provided gainful employment, skills training, and opportunities for youth to actively participate in the development of the society.
“We emphasise the need to strengthen our institutions, including the judiciary, security agencies, and governance structures, to ensure accountability, transparency, and justice for all citizens.
“We appeal to both religious and community leaders to guide their congregations in prayers for peace and prosperity, and to counsel their followers on the importance of peaceful coexistence.
“We also encourage affluent members of society to provide assistance in alleviating the suffering of the less privileged through the provision of food, medicines, and other necessities,’’ it added.
The communiqué also called on the media to uphold their ethical responsibility in reporting events on unrests, ensuring accuracy, fairness, and responsible journalism that contributed to promoting peace, understanding, and national unity.
They also urged political actors to consider the dangers of unorganised and unpredictable protests, urging political parties to prioritise local government elections as a legitimate channel for expressing grievances and effecting change.
“A delegation from this gathering should be formed to interface with the relevant authorities.
“A similar gathering should be organised with a specific focus on the youth, moderated by selected elders under the umbrella of Arewa House, to discuss issues affecting young people and explore effective solutions.
“The gathering also included a briefing from a Sudanese representative, who explained how desperate individuals hijacked the protests in Sudan and the irreparable consequences that the country is still grappling with.
“We, the participants of this roundtable discussion, commit to promoting a culture of peaceful coexistence, dialogue, and sustainable development in Nigeria.
“We stand united in our efforts to address the challenges facing our nation while upholding the principles of democracy, human rights, and social justice,’’ it said.
NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA