Kwankwaso to Nigerians: Protests have dire consequences — seek change through ballot

Rabiu Kwankwaso, presidential candidate of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) in the 2023 election, has called on Nigerians to consider the ballot as a more effective means of seeking transformation.

Speaking on the proposed nationwide protest, Kwankwaso said poor governance has caused anger, hunger, insecurity, hopelessness, and despair among the citizens.

He said the federal government has been meddling in the country’s political affairs, adding that many challenges in the country are unnecessary and avoidable.

“It is with deep sense of responsibility that I share my thoughts on the current situation in Nigeria. We found ourselves in avoidable hardship because our leaders missed some steps since 2007,” Kwankwaso said in a statement posted on X on Saturday.

“However, there is always room for correction and setting the country on the right track for economic development, prosperity and better welfare of citizens.

“This could be achieved through ensuring good governance, respect for the rule of law, transparency and accountability.

“It is sad to note that the attitude of our leaders to poor governance plunged the citizens, especially youth, into anger, hunger, insecurity, hopelessness and about giving up on the country.

“Interferences by the federal government into the affairs of the chieftaincy matters in Kano state, impeachment of the deputy governor of Edo state, political crises in Rivers state, sabotage to Aliko 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 the hardship in the country has led the youths to frustration and a strong urge to protest.

Kwankwaso called on the government to take “necessary steps to address the myriad challenges” — but added that protests can be counter-productive.

“The recent calls for protests against bad governance resonate with me, as they reflect our collective frustration and yearning for a better Nigeria,” he said.

“However, I urge Nigerians to put our country first before any other consideration by way of being patient with the government and giving it all necessary support to succeed.

“If any government fails to provide the necessary leadership for better Nigeria, we will have opportunity as citizens to elect the people who can bring the required change using our votes.”

‘PROTESTS CAN LEAD TO CHAOS’

Kwankwaso urged Nigerians to consider the consequences of a national protest, adding that it can escalate into violence, loss of lives and destruction of properties.

“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,” he said.

“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.

“Protests, while a fundamental democratic right, often come with unforeseen and dire consequences. The tragic events of the past have shown us that protests can escalate into violence, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread chaos. The repercussions of such actions extend far beyond the immediate moment, leaving scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us.”