Some politicians ‘desperate to profit from’ #EndSARS protests

A group known as the Citizens Action for Good Government (CAGG) has accused some politicians of taking advantage of the #EndSARS protests for personal gains.

At a press conference in Abuja on Thursday, the group said some politicians have been making inciteful statements in their “desperation” to profit from the protests.

Nationwide protests against the dissolved police special anti-robbery squad (SARS) have metamorphosed into agitation for improved governance in addition to justice for victims of police brutality.

The protests have turned violent resulting in several deaths and destruction of properties in parts of the country.

Nazir Galadanchi, CAGG national coordinator, said there is a need for the protests to be suspended to allow the government to act on the demands made by the agitators.

“We in Citizens Action for Good Governance (CAGG) are very much concerned and worried about the progressive deterioration of things and the slide into anarchy, as a result of the hijack of the #EndSARS protests,” he said.

“Most concerning is the alarming increase in violent assaults carried out against both citizens and police officers. This death fills our heart with pain and grief.

“The country is currently bleeding and we appeal to our fellow citizens to stand down and bring a stop to the protest across the country.

“There is no gainsaying that if good intentions are overrun by ulterior motives those behind the good intentions should rethink, reconsider or even jettison their original plans.

“As concerned Nigerians, we would like to express profound sadness and deep misgivings with the way and manner lives and property were lost in recent days because of the dangerous dimension the protest took. This is most unfortunate and unacceptable!

“Also, it is of grave concern that some political leaders have been desperately positioning themselves to profit from the protests, including engaging in grandstanding, playing to the gallery and making reckless and unhelpful utterances.”

The group added that Nigeria’s peace should remain priority for all, adding: “No person or group, no matter how aggrieved, should be allowed to undermine or threaten national security.”