Group pulls out of protest, charges govts to address hunger, hardship

The Concerned Citizens of Northern Nigeria (CCNN), has explained its position on the proposed nationwide protest. Daily Trust reports that some youths are planning a nationwide protest between August 1 and 15 against the rising cost of living and economic hardship in the country. In a statement on Saturday, Muhammad Bello Aliyu, Jigawa state Co-ordinator […]

The Concerned Citizens of Northern Nigeria (CCNN), has explained its position on the proposed nationwide protest.

Daily Trust reports that some youths are planning a nationwide protest between August 1 and 15 against the rising cost of living and economic hardship in the country.

In a statement on Saturday, Muhammad Bello Aliyu, Jigawa state Co-ordinator of CCNN said the group had participated in mobilization of people to partake in the protest.

Aliyu said after considering the circumstances surrounding the protest, the CCNN Jigawa State Chapter including its 27 LGAs branches withdrew from the demonstration.

He said: “Initially, we actively participated in mobilization of people to partake in the protest considering the prevailing conditions of insecurity, hunger and starvation in the country.

“However, after considering the following circumstances surrounding the protest, the CCNN Jigawa State Chapter including its 27 LGAs branches hereby announce its withdrawal from the planned Nationwide Protest. This decision was reached in consultation with the 20 Affiliate Associations in Jigawa State.

“This decision comes after careful consideration and a thorough assessment of the potential risks and consequences of participating in the protest.

“As concerned citizens, we prioritize the peace and stability of our region. We have witnessed the devastating effects of protests in some countries, where initially peaceful demonstrations escalated into violent conflicts, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of property, and long-term instability.

“In the same vein, here in Nigeria, we recall the devastating experience of the #EndSARS protest, which was initially peaceful but later hijacked by elements with ulterior motives. The Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB) and other groups exploited the situation, leading to widespread violence, destruction of property, and loss of lives. We cannot afford to repeat such a scenario in Northern Nigeria.

“We cannot afford to gamble with the security and well-being of our people. The North has faced numerous challenges in recent times, and we must not create avenues for further destabilization.

“Moreover, we are aware of the possibility of conflict merchants infiltrating the protest, exploiting the grievances of our people to further their own interests. We will not provide a platform for those who seek to divide and destroy our nation.

“Our withdrawal from the protest is a proactive measure to safeguard the interests of Northern Nigeria.”

The group, however, urged President Tinubu to implement policies to stimulate economic growth and job creation.

“Notwithstanding, today, Nigerians are suffering from insecurity, hunger and starvation. The economic situation in the country has worsened, leaving many without access to basic necessities. It is imperative that the government at all levels rises up to the occasion to find solutions to these pressing issues.

“We call on President Tinubu to implement policies to stimulate economic growth and job creation and provide support for vulnerable populations, especially the poor and marginalized.”

“The CCNN charged the government to address the root causes of insecurity and work towards lasting peace.”

Specifically, the CCNN presented the following specific demands to the Government:

“Government must work tirelessly to tackle end insecurity bedeviling our communities.

“Government must end the current hardship in Nigeria immediately.

“Government should revitalize our refineries and reverse petrol prices to a reasonable amount.

“Government must reverse electricity tariffs.

“Bring tertiary institution fees back to their previous rates.

“Reduce cost of governance as well as salaries and allowances of all political office holders.

“Restrain from the foreign loans and reduce tax on citizens.”