Calling for action, Ambassador Ibrahim Waiya, the Executive Director of Citizens for Development and Education (CDE), urged security agents to apprehend the individuals responsible for orchestrating the recent protests in Kano.
Waiya emphasized the need for organizers to take responsibility for the loss of lives and property that occurred during the violent events in Kano.
In a statement released to the press in Kano, Ambassador Waiya, who also serves as the Convener of the Nigeria For Peace Project (N4P), denounced all those involved in planning and executing the protest.
Expressing strong condemnation, he stated, “The protest and its facilitators must be held accountable for the unexpected chaos that befell our beloved Kano State.”
The unrest in Kano on Thursday, driven by hoodlums, resulted in widespread looting and tragic consequences, including loss of life and property.
Ambassador Waiya criticized the adamant stance of those behind the protest, despite numerous warnings and advisories against such actions from various sources.
He pointed out that, “Many prominent figures cautioned against proceeding with the protest, citing the unique nature of Kano State, and the malicious intentions of certain individuals within the state longing to cause disruption.”
The activist expressed sorrow over the aftermath of the protests, highlighting the negative impacts such as loss of lives, destruction of valuable investments, and tarnishing of Kano State’s reputation.
He emphasized the setback caused by the destruction of the NCC Centre, impacting opportunities for ICT literacy and development in Kano.
Commending the swift response of Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf in imposing a curfew and the effective actions taken by security agencies to restore order and apprehend culprits, Waiya appreciated the efforts made to contain the situation.
In a signed statement, Ambassador Waiya criticized the insensitivity of the federal government towards the plight of citizens who are struggling to feed themselves, contrasting it with the extravagant spending on personal welfare.
Expressing concern about the dwindling faith in democracy and government among Nigerians, he called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to take immediate measures to alleviate the suffering of the populace.
He cautioned the President, stating, “People are gradually losing faith in the Nigerian democracy and your administration as life becomes increasingly unbearable.”
He pledged to monitor the developments in Kano closely and ensure that those responsible for the chaos under the guise of protest face justice.