Recent nationwide protests under the #EndBadGovernanceinNigeria banner have been marred by violence and looting. The Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) strongly condemns these actions that have led to the destruction of public and private property.
In various northern states like Kaduna and Kano, protesters marched through the streets, brandishing Russian flags. This escalation of violence prompted state governments to impose 24-hour curfews in affected areas.
Speaking from Kaduna on Wednesday, Prof. Tukur Mohammed-Baba, the National Publicity Secretary of ACF, expressed sorrow over the loss of lives and injuries sustained during the protests held nationwide.
The ACF categorizes the protesters’ actions as “inexcusable and unequivocally condemnable,” arguing that they contradicted the stated objectives of the protests.
Prior to the planned 10-day national protest scheduled for August 2024, the ACF had expressed concerns and cautioned against disruptive behavior that could lead to lawlessness.
The ACF highlighted that the protests in recent months have been driven by widespread discontent, frustration, and disillusionment with the country’s public policies.
The forum emphasized the need for the Federal and state governments to address citizens’ grievances, stressing the importance of accountability, good governance, and anti-corruption measures.
Recognizing the costs of the protests, the ACF extended condolences to families who lost loved ones, expressed sympathies to the injured, and empathized with those whose properties were affected by looting and damage.