Rabiu Kwankwaso, the former governor of Kano State, has urged the organizers of the nationwide protest to shelve their plans and exercise caution while expressing their grievances.
In a personal statement released on Friday evening, Rabiu Kwankwaso urged the organizers of the nationwide protest and Nigerian citizens to embrace a democratic approach in bringing an end to the current incompetent government. He advocated for the use of ballots as a powerful tool for change, rather than resorting to protests.
Kwankwaso also issued a clarion call to leaders across Nigeria, from all tiers of government, to take immediate action in tackling the myriad challenges besetting the nation. He emphasized the need for responsible leadership, characterized by good governance, transparency, and a steadfast commitment to upholding the rule of law.
He said, “It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I share my thoughts on the current situation in Nigeria. We find ourselves in avoidable hardship because our leaders missed some steps since 2007. However, there is always room for correction and setting the country on the right track for economic development, prosperity, and better welfare of citizens.
“Interferences by the Federal Government into the affairs of the chieftaincy matters in Kano State, impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political crisis in Rivers State, sabotage to Aliko Dangote refinery, controversies surrounding the SAMOA agreement, the conflict between Sen. Ali Ndume and the APC Leadership, widespread insecurity and other criminal acts are a few examples of avoidable and unnecessary crises.
“We appeal to the leadership of the country at all levels to take necessary steps to address the myriad challenges facing the country.”
Kwankwaso acknowledged the hardship in the country and the yearnings for a better Nigeria but cautioned against protests that could lead to anarchy.
The NNPP national leader urged Nigerians to be patient with the Bola Tinubu government and give it all the necessary support to succeed.
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.
“However, I urge Nigerians to put our country first before any other consideration by way of being patient with the government and giving it all the necessary support to succeed. If any government fails to provide the necessary leadership for a better Nigeria, we will have the opportunity as citizens to elect the people who can bring the required change using our votes.
“In these trying times, our nation stands at a crossroads. Our collective frustration with bad governance has reached a boiling point, and the urge to protest is strong.
“As an elder and patriotic Nigerian, I share your concerns and your desire for change. However, I urge you to consider the consequences of national protests and to channel your energy into a more effective and peaceful means of transformation through the power of your ballot.”
Kwankwaso stated that protest, while it is a fundamental democratic right, often escalated into violence, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread chaos.
He added, “Protests, while a fundamental democratic right, often come with 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.
“The repercussions of such actions extend far beyond the immediate moment, leaving scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us.”
