The Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution (IPCR) has called on Nigerians to cancel the planned nationwide protest scheduled for August 1 to 10, which aims to address the country’s economic hardships.
In a statement on Wednesday, IPCR Director General Joseph Ochogwu emphasized that the economic difficulties faced by Nigeria are part of a global crisis and urged citizens to exercise caution to avoid worsening the situation.
“IPCR has issued a timely call for calm and restraint ahead of the planned protests against the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu,” said Ochogwu. “The Institute calls on Civil Society Groups, organizers, and other bodies involved in the planned protests to note that, although the nation is facing hard times—a situation not unique to Nigeria, as the world at large is grappling with a global economic crisis—this requires caution to avoid inflaming the already precarious situation in the country.”
Concerns Over Disunity and Disruption:
Ochogwu warned that the protests could lead to disunity and disrupt the fragile peace currently maintained amid widespread insecurity. He stressed that the protests might jeopardize President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda, which aims to revitalize the nation’s prospects.
“IPCR urges citizens to avoid fanning the flames of disunity and disrupting the fragile peace currently enjoyed amidst insecurity,” Ochogwu stated. “This wise counsel comes at a critical juncture, as protests at this point could jeopardize the renewed hope agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Institute’s cautionary statement serves as a reminder that hasty actions can have unintended consequences.”
Call for Constructive Engagement:
Ochogwu highlighted the importance of measured responses and collective efforts in addressing the nation’s challenges. He emphasized that while protests are a fundamental right, they can sometimes be counterproductive if not carefully considered.
“By urging restraint, the Institute acknowledges the need for measured responses to the current challenges. Highlighting the delicate nature of the current situation, IPCR notes that any actions that could disrupt this peace would be counterproductive, especially when considered in the context of President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda,” he said. “This agenda, aimed at revitalizing the nation’s prospects, requires a stable environment to succeed.”
Ochogwu concluded by advocating for a thoughtful and strategic approach to addressing Nigeria’s challenges, encouraging citizens to prioritize constructive engagement and collaboration rather than actions that could undermine the fragile peace.
“In essence, the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution is advocating for a thoughtful and strategic approach to addressing the nation’s challenges. By urging calm and restraint, the Institute encourages citizens to prioritize constructive engagement and collaboration, rather than resorting to actions that could undermine the fragile peace,” he said.