By Ibrahim Hassan-Wuyo

The Coalition of Civil Society Groups, representing both indigenes and non-indigenes in Kaduna State, has opposed the nationwide protests scheduled for October 1, 2024.

“We firmly distance ourselves from these events and emphasize our commitment to constructive engagement rather than disruption,” the group stated.

At a press conference in Kaduna on Monday, the group’s spokesman, Comrade Yusuf Lawal, said October 1 should be a day of celebration, honoring the sacrifices and contributions of past heroes. He described it as “a day to reflect on our collective journey as a state and a nation, not one marked by the destruction of government and private property or civil unrest.”

“The importance of unity and respect for our shared history cannot be overstated. We recognize and appreciate the government’s ongoing efforts to enhance the quality of life for citizens, particularly through the establishment of skill acquisition centers slated to commence in December. These centers represent a significant opportunity for community development and economic empowerment. We urge the government to ensure that the selection process for these programs is transparent and equitable, reflecting the diverse needs of our community while being free from nepotism or favoritism,” he added.

The Coalition encouraged residents to actively engage in local government elections instead of participating in protests that could lead to chaos and violence. “The upcoming local elections provide a vital platform for voicing concerns and enacting change. If we feel that our state and national leaders are not meeting expectations, it is through grassroots involvement that we can make our voices heard and drive positive change. The federal government’s commitment to local government autonomy offers us the chance to influence our governance directly.”

The group expressed particular concern about the involvement of children in protests. “Responsible parenting is crucial, and we, as representatives of over fifty civil society organizations, unequivocally oppose the participation of minors in such activities. The safety and well-being of our children must take precedence over political expression.”

“While we acknowledge that the current government has its shortcomings, it is essential to allow it the necessary time to fulfill its commitments. The recent protests, particularly the ‘End Bad Governance’ demonstrations, resulted in significant vandalism and tragic loss of life, including the heartbreaking death of a young man from Zaria. The economic repercussions for businesses and communities have been severe, diverting essential resources that could otherwise have been invested in development and social services.”

“Historically, protests have often failed to resolve the systemic challenges facing our nation. Instead, constructive dialogue, community engagement, and collaboration with the government have proven to be more effective paths to addressing our concerns and fostering lasting change.”

“As a united coalition, we stand firmly against these protests and implore the government to persist in its efforts for the betterment of all citizens. We believe in the power of dialogue and cooperation to address grievances and build a more prosperous future. It is critical for every patriot in Kaduna State to consider the disadvantages associated with protests, particularly their socioeconomic impacts:

Economic Disruption: Protests can lead to business closures, job losses, and a general decline in economic activity. The vandalism that often accompanies protests can inflict significant financial damage on both private and public entities, hampering development efforts.

Loss of Life and Safety Concerns: Protests can escalate into violence, resulting in injuries and fatalities. Such incidents not only affect the families involved but also create a pervasive climate of fear within our communities.

Diverted Resources: Funds that could be allocated for essential development projects or social services are often redirected to address the aftermath of protests, including security measures and repair costs. This misallocation can stifle progress in our communities.

Social Division: Protests can polarize communities, fostering divisions among citizens. This social fragmentation undermines the cohesion necessary for collective progress and development.

Neglected Governance: Protests can shift attention away from constructive dialogue and viable solutions, leading to disengagement from the political process and weakening our democratic institutions.

“Given these considerable disadvantages, we advocate for dialogue as a vital means of achieving national development. It is essential to foster a culture of conversation and collaboration, ensuring we do not create more problems than we can solve. As civil society organizations, we appeal to the government to prioritize the successful implementation of the skills acquisition centers by:

Ensuring Accessibility: Make the centers accessible to all citizens, particularly marginalized groups, to promote inclusivity and equal opportunities.

Providing Diverse Programs: Offer a wide range of vocational training programs tailored to meet the specific needs of the local economy, ensuring participants are well-prepared for the job market.

Qualified Instructors: Engage qualified trainers who can deliver high-quality education and practical skills, enhancing the employability of graduates.

Support Services: Establish robust support services, including career counseling and job placement assistance, to help graduates transition effectively into the workforce.

Community Awareness: Conduct outreach programs to inform the community about available training opportunities and their benefits, encouraging greater participation and investment in skill development.

“While we uphold the right to peaceful assembly, we urge our community to carefully consider the broader implications of protests. We encourage everyone to pursue engagement through dialogue, participation in local governance, and active citizenship. Together, we can create a brighter, more prosperous future for Kaduna State,” the Coalition concluded.