Abuja, July 8, 2024 — The Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC), a non-governmental organization, has issued a stern warning to Nigerians against adopting the anti-tax protest model recently seen in Kenya.
The Chairman of the Board of Trustees of CCC, Retired Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, delivered this message while addressing the media on the centre’s Conflict Trends Analysis (CTA) for the second quarter.
During the press briefing in Abuja, Olukolade expressed concern over the suggestions from some quarters advocating for a replication of Kenya's anti-tax protests in Nigeria as a means to address the country's economic challenges. He emphasized that, while the right to protest is enshrined in Nigeria's constitution, resorting to violence and destruction in the name of protest is unacceptable.
"The Kenyan experience is not and should not be our democratic model," Olukolade stated. "Violence has no redeeming quality, and any action that leads to violence and destruction should be discouraged. Nigeria is already dealing with multifaceted internal security challenges, and any call for violent protests will simply open the country up to opportunistic criminals who will cause mayhem, destroy public facilities, and endanger our peaceful existence."
He reminded the public of the devastating aftermath of the EndSARS protests, urging Nigerian youths to avoid actions that could lead to crisis and destruction. Olukolade called on the government to proactively address the nation’s prevailing challenges to de-escalate tension.
The CCC's Conflict Trends Analysis also highlighted concerns over rising tension and restiveness in parts of Nigeria. The recent escalation of violent rhetoric and provocative posturing by some stakeholders could exacerbate the country's internal security challenges.
Olukolade specifically mentioned the unresolved issue of minimum wage disputes between organized labour and the Federal Government, urging a swift resolution. He also highlighted the protracted political conflict in Rivers State, calling for all parties to cease inflammatory rhetoric and allow judicial processes to proceed.
Moreover, the tense situation in Kano, where the Emirship tussle has remained unresolved for months, presents a significant potential for violent conflict. Olukolade urged calm and temperance among the parties involved while awaiting the judicial outcome.
The former defence spokesman assured that the CCC would continue to analyze the nation's conflicts and provide recommendations to relevant government agencies. He also warned against the dangers of fake news and hate speeches prevalent on social media, which threaten Nigeria's unity and corporate existence.
In his concluding remarks, Olukolade appealed to political, religious, and community leaders to collaborate in addressing the underlying issues driving national tension, emphasizing the need for all citizens to embrace peace and security.
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