Amid concerns of protests being infiltrated by criminal elements and political actors, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has urged for the safeguarding of protesters.
Expressing condemnation for the disruption of peaceful protests in various locations, CISLAC’s Executive Director, Auwal Rafsanjani, emphasized the need to protect protesters while urging them to refrain from damaging properties and public infrastructure.
Expressing deep worry over the worsening security landscape and the involvement of non-state actors in regions like Kano, Musa highlighted observations from CISLAC’s situational monitoring.
He pointed out that CISLAC’s observations indicated that security forces were being unduly influenced by political interferences tied to local rivalries, resulting in inadequate protection for peaceful demonstrators.
“The originally peaceful protests by Nigerians, aimed at voicing legitimate grievances, have unfortunately been co-opted and transformed into violent disruptions.
“Criminal elements are seizing the protests to sow further disorder and jeopardize public safety,” he remarked.
The head of CISLAC stressed the importance of the government refraining from politicizing security responses, especially in Kano, and instead focusing on safeguarding lives and property.
He criticized the inflammatory statements made by public figures which, in his view, have escalated tensions and fueled more unrest.
“Irresponsible and incendiary statements from public figures could instigate Nigerians to hit the streets. Such remarks undermine the legitimacy of the protesters’ grievances and must be avoided,” he cautioned.
He also censured the government’s purported backing of counter-protests aimed at undermining the rightful demonstrations.
“The government’s actions have put peaceful protesters at risk, paving the way for assaults and manipulation by hooligans and non-state entities,” he added.
CISLAC had previously urged the government to guarantee the protection of peaceful demonstrators, a move that, if properly executed, could have averted the current state of disarray.
“We have noticed troubling patterns and urge genuine protesters to uphold their demonstrations peacefully to prevent criminals from exploiting the situation.
“We implore all Nigerians to steer clear of any violent, criminal, or politically motivated vandalism. The protests, aimed at addressing valid concerns, should not be equated with criminal acts and violence,” Musa concluded.
He reiterated CISLAC’s unwavering commitment to championing citizens’ rights protection and ensuring that their voices are heard in a secure and peaceful manner.
NAN.