Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, a former governor of Kano State, has advised the organizers to put off the statewide protest, which is slated to begin on August 1, 2024.
Kwankwaso, the national head of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), stated they should instead use the ballot.
He claimed that democratic regime change would be more effective than protest against an incompetent government.
Kwankwaso underscored in a statement he personally signed on Friday night that significant and long-lasting change can only be achieved through the power of the ballot not protests.
“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,” he stated.
Kwankwaso noted various issues caused by poor governance, including federal interference in Kano State’s chieftaincy affairs, the impeachment of Edo State’s Deputy Governor, political turbulence in Rivers State, and pervasive insecurity.
“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 AIiko Dangote refinery, controversies surrounding 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,” he said.
He contended that these problems were indicative of a lack of accountability and transparency.
“It is sad to note that the attitude of our leaders to poor governance has plunged the citizens, especially youth, into hunger, insecurity, hopelessness, and a sense of giving up on the country,” Kwankwaso declared.
He urged Nigerian officials at all levels to confront the difficulties at hand as soon as possible by ensuring good governance and the rule of law.
Kwankwaso acknowledged recent protest calls and recognized the common discontent and aspiration for a better Nigeria, but cautioned against the potential consequences of such acts.
He urged Nigerians to think of their vote as the most powerful vehicle for change.
“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 advised.
Kwankwaso warned that, while protests are a fundamental democratic right, they frequently become violent, resulting in deaths, property destruction, and general disruption.
“The repercussions of such actions extend far beyond the immediate moment, leaving scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us.
“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.
“Let us put our country first and work together to build the Nigeria we all aspire to see,” he advocated.
