By Isyaku Ibrahim
Come early next month, Nigerians across major cities and towns, regardless of their age and social status, may take to the streets in protest against the prevailing socio-economic obstacles in society.
Rightly speaking, it is no longer a secret that Nigerians are feeling the burden of the present upheaval, aggravated by the recent removal of fuel subsidies and the deteriorating state of the Naira. Hence, the organizers (still unknown) should be commended for their foresight in expressing their disenchantment through a peaceful march. A similar mass action in Kenya recently yielded positive results, forcing the government to reconsider some of its draconian economic policies.
However, we are not suggesting that fellow Nigerians should blindly copy the East African nation’s example. Instead, we pray that this peaceful clamoring remains focused and does not devolve into something that inflicts additional pain and anger on common citizens.
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This caution is necessary because we have witnessed past demonstrations that started with good intentions but spiraled into chaos. These demonstrations, meant to awaken those in power to their responsibilities, often turned into looting sprees and led to the loss of innocent lives. Jealousy, envy, hatred, religious differences, sectionalism, tribalism, and political maneuvering by unscrupulous politicians all played a role in derailing these movements.
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To avoid repeating history, organizers must treat carefully. While staging a peaceful march is not inappropriate, they must guard against infiltrators who might exploit the opportunity to disrupt their noble cause. As the saying goes, “One bad egg spoils the whole bunch.”
In the aftermath, the government will likely respond swiftly. Curfews may be imposed, and those suspected of instigating violence will face arrest. Well-connected individuals may find themselves released, while others serve jail terms.
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Ideally, the government should engage in dialogue with the faceless group behind the protest. Listening to their grievances, which undoubtedly stem from the harsh challenges Nigerians face, can lead to prompt solutions. Allowing the demonstration to proceed unchecked could result in unwarranted destruction of lives and property, causing untold hardship for the majority.
In the interest of uprightness, fairness, equality, justice, and national unity, we must proceed with caution and ensure that this protest serves its intended purpose without unnecessary harm.
Isyaku Ibrahim is Kano-based Journalist and Public Affairs Commentator
