The aftermath of the August 1st nationwide #EndBadGovernance protest has left a trail of devastation, with violent clashes resulting in the tragic loss of lives and the destruction of properties worth billions of naira. The chaos, particularly severe in Northern states, has prompted an outcry from notable figures across the country.
Renowned human rights activist and former Senator, Shehu Sani, took to his official social media channel, X (formerly Twitter), to voice his condemnation of those advocating for the continuation of the protests. In his statement, Senator Sani highlighted the dire consequences of the unrest: “With scores dead, hundreds injured, and properties worth billions of naira belonging to private businesses and the government destroyed by hoodlums, mostly in Northern states, those wishing to encourage the continuation of this protest, especially in the North, should reconsider.”
The violent nature of the protests has resulted in significant casualties and extensive damage, exacerbating the already challenging situation in the region. Senator Sani stressed the absence of visible leadership among the protesters and called for an immediate cessation of the unrest: “At our end, it’s a violent protest without visible leadership and must be discontinued.”
Senator Sani’s appeal comes at a critical juncture, as communities reel from the impact of the violence. His call for peace and order reflects a broader sentiment among leaders and citizens alike, who are desperate for stability and the protection of lives and properties.
The unfolding crisis underscores the urgent need for constructive dialogue and effective leadership to address the grievances that sparked the protests. While the right to peaceful protest is fundamental, the recent events in Northern Nigeria highlight the devastating consequences of uncontrolled violence.
In these tumultuous times, the call for an end to the violence is more pressing than ever. As Senator Sani and others emphasize, the focus must now shift to restoring order and rebuilding the communities affected by the unrest. The path forward requires collaboration between the government, civil society, and citizens to ensure that the underlying issues driving the protests are addressed through peaceful and constructive means.
Senator Sani’s poignant message serves as a reminder of the critical balance between the right to protest and the need to maintain peace and security. His words resonate as a call to action for all Nigerians to work together in fostering a more stable and just society.
PIONEER NEWS 