The Northern Voices for Justice (NVJ) has issued a rallying cry to men, women, and youths across the 19 northern states of Nigeria to unite for the #EndBadGovernance protest scheduled from August 1 to 10. In a compelling statement on Friday, NVJ’s Convener, Comrade Sani Saeed Altukry, outlined the myriad reasons driving this urgent call to action, framing the protest as a constitutional right of the citizens.
“We, the Northern Voices for Justice (NVJ), led by Comrade Sani Saeed Altukry, are calling on every man, woman, and youth in the 19 Northern States to rise and join our mass protest. This is an urgent call to action, an emergency response to the injustices and hardships imposed on us by an indifferent and corrupt administration,” Altukry declared passionately.
Highlighting the severe economic hardships plaguing the region, Altukry emphasized the untenable cost of living, soaring food prices, and the absence of subsidies on essential services, which have collectively driven many families to the brink of starvation and despair.
“The removal of fuel subsidies has inflicted unprecedented hardship on the populace,” he said. “We demand that fuel prices be reduced to below 250 Naira per litre to alleviate the burden on our people.”
Altukry further outlined critical demands regarding educational and utility subsidies. “The reintroduction of educational subsidies is essential to make tertiary education affordable for our youth. Additionally, the restoration of electricity tariffs to affordable rates is necessary to ensure that every Nigerian can access basic utilities,” he stated.
The NVJ also called for sweeping judicial and electoral reforms. “We demand a transparent judiciary and an independent electoral commission (INEC) to ensure fair and credible elections,” Altukry asserted.
Emphasizing the legal foundation of their actions, Altukry cited Section 40 of the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees every citizen the right to assemble freely and protest. “We are exercising our legal right to demand justice and accountability from those in power,” he declared.
To safeguard the rights of protesters, NVJ has enlisted a team of dedicated lawyers to provide pro-bono services to anyone harassed or detained by law enforcement during the protests. “We will not be silenced by intimidation or oppression,” Altukry vowed.
Addressing detractors, including some clerics and purported comrades who have discouraged participation in the protest, Altukry was unequivocal. “These individuals are nothing more than paid agents and sell-outs, lacking the support of true Nigerian citizens. They do not speak for us, and their actions betray the trust of the people,” he said.
In a bid to ensure the safety and integrity of the protests, NVJ has arranged for bouncers to be present across all 19 Northern States to prevent any infiltration by hoodlums or disruptive elements. “This is a peaceful protest, and we will maintain the highest standards of conduct,” Altukry affirmed.
“This is a clarion call to every Nigerian, not just those in the North. Stand with us in solidarity. Join us in demanding a better Nigeria. Together, our voices will resonate across the nation, and we will bring about the change we desperately need,” he urged.
For more information or to join the movement, the NVJ encourages contact via sanisaeed366@gmail.com.
PIONEER NEWS 