As Nigeria’s stability hangs in the balance, a provocative question resonates through the streets: Can a nation be built on the foundations of rage, or does reason hold the key to a brighter future? The upcoming ’10 Days of Rage’ protest, scheduled for August 1-10, has sparked a fierce debate about the role of emotion versus intellect in shaping the country’s future.
Organizers insist on their constitutional right to protest in Nigeria, despite repeated warnings from the government and civil society organizations (CSOs) that the protest could be hijacked by individuals with sinister motives, as seen in the 2020 #EndSARS protests. Proponents of the protest argue that it is a necessary outlet for the pent-up frustrations of Nigerians facing economic hardships, corruption, and insecurity. They believe that such demonstrations can force the government in Nigeria to address the grievances of the populace.
However, critics warn that unchecked rage can lead to chaos and undermine the very fabric of society. They argue that constructive dialogue and reasoned approaches are more effective in bringing about sustainable change in Nigeria. The government’s apprehension is palpable, as it seeks to balance the right to peaceful assembly with the need to maintain public order and safety.
UN Threat and Risk Assessment
The United Nations Department of Safety and Security issued a warning on July 19, highlighting the potential risks associated with the ’10 Days of Rage’ protest. According to their threat and risk assessment, the protest, organized by different groups with varying motives, may be exploited by individuals with clandestine agendas. This concern is not unfounded, as recent protests in Nigeria have been hijacked by arsonists and anarchists, leading to widespread violence and destruction.
The UN report recalls the February 2023 financial crisis triggered by the scarcity of new Naira currency, which resulted in violent protests across multiple states, including Akwa Ibom, Delta, Edo, Imo, Kwara, Lagos, Ondo, Ogun, Oyo, and Rivers. During this period, several bank branches and ATM points were vandalized, and major roads were blocked, disrupting normal economic and social activities. The UN warns that the turnout for the ’10 Days of Rage’ protest is expected to be high, and similar large-scale disruptions cannot be discounted.
Furthermore, the UN cautions about the potential for clashes between protesters and government supporters, which could escalate into widespread violence. The organization’s assessment underscores the need for careful planning and management of the protest to prevent it from spiraling out of control. As Nigeria braces for this significant event, the nation must grapple with the critical question of whether it will be rage or reason that ultimately shapes its future.
President Tinubu Urges Protest Organizers to Cancel Demonstration
President Bola Tinubu has called on the organizers of an upcoming protest to cancel their plans, promising to address their concerns directly. In a statement released by the Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, the President emphasized the need for patience and dialogue over street protests. “The President sees no need for the planned protest and has asked organizers to shelve the plan and await the government’s response,” Idris stated.
This move comes amid rising tensions in the country, as various groups prepare to take to the streets to voice their grievances. The President’s appeal highlights his administration’s commitment to addressing public concerns through constructive engagement rather than confrontation. Tinubu’s administration is urging citizens to trust the government’s process and avoid actions that could destabilize the nation.
Reflecting on #EndSARS In Nigeria: A Call for Caution
Several groups have pointed to the lingering impact of the #EndSARS protests as a reason to reconsider the planned demonstration. The #EndSARS movement, which began as a protest against police brutality, escalated into widespread unrest, resulting in significant destruction and loss in Nigeria. The nation is still grappling with the aftermath, including rebuilding efforts and socio-economic recovery.
These groups are calling on protest organizers to cancel their plans and allow the government time to address their concerns. They warn that protests can be exploited by individuals with sinister agendas, potentially leading to violence and further instability. The memory of #EndSARS serves as a stark reminder of how quickly peaceful protests can devolve into chaos, with far-reaching consequences for the nation.
Political Implications: Support from Obi and Atiku
Presidential candidates Peter Obi and Atiku Abubakar have voiced their support for the protest, asserting that it is a constitutional right. However, some observers argue that their support may be politically motivated, aiming to leverage the current crisis for potential gains in the 2027 elections. This perspective suggests that their endorsement is not purely altruistic but rather a strategic move to position themselves as champions of public discontent.
Political analysts caution that while the right to protest is fundamental, it must be exercised responsibly. They stress the importance of dialogue and collaboration between the government and protest leaders to address underlying issues. The potential for political figures to capitalize on public unrest underscores the need for careful consideration of the broader implications of such demonstrations.
Security and Economic Concerns: Analysts Urge Caution
Security experts have commended President Tinubu’s swift response to the planned protest but stress the need for continued engagement with protest leaders. They argue that addressing economic challenges and insecurity requires collective efforts and caution against actions that could exacerbate the situation. Widespread protests, they warn, could lead to significant economic disruption, social unrest, and political instability.
The economic consequences of large-scale protests can be severe in Nigeria. Businesses may close, resulting in lost productivity and revenue, while property damage and transportation disruptions can add to the financial toll. Moreover, protests can turn violent, deepening existing divisions within the country. In the worst-case scenario, sustained unrest could even lead to political instability or a return to military rule, some analysts have cautioned.
These experts advocate for a balanced approach, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and constructive engagement over confrontation. By addressing the root causes of public discontent and working collaboratively towards solutions, the government can mitigate the risk of widespread protests and their potential fallout.
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