Expressing worry, non-indigenes residing in Kaduna State have voiced their concerns about the potential repercussions of the upcoming nationwide protest against the escalating cost of living and economic challenges in the nation.
They have raised allegations that during the protest, criminals posing as protesters may engage in looting their shops, markets, and business establishments throughout the state.
Members of the Kaduna Non-Indigenes Forum, especially the Igbo traders, have indicated their decision to opt-out of the protest due to previous negative experiences. They pointed out that historically, any form of demonstration or unrest in the state has often resulted in targeted attacks on market stalls and commercial areas, leading to widespread looting of essential goods, electronics, and valuable items.
In a joint statement signed by Chief Emeke Emmanuel Okafor, the Chairman, and Mr. Adewale Peter Adelanwa, the Secretary, the Forum has urged the public to refrain from participating in the planned protest, particularly in light of the recent ban on unlawful protests by the State Police Command.
Raising apprehensions about the potential for violence, drawing reference to past instances where similar protests in the state had spiraled into escalated conflicts, the forum has called for the deployment of armed security personnel by the state government to secure vulnerable areas or potential flashpoints and safeguard lives and properties.
Describing Kaduna as a volatile region, with non-indigenous residents bearing the brunt and enduring significant losses of lives and assets during periods of unrest over the years, they emphasized the critical need to avoid any casualties and property damage.
“Taking into account our past ordeals during crises and the real threat of hoodlums seizing control of the peaceful demonstration, we strongly advise against organizing any form of protest in Kaduna at this time. We acknowledge that we are also grappling with the economic hardships faced by other Nigerians. Still, we cannot afford to risk our well-established investments and properties, especially amid one of the country’s most severe inflation and economic turmoil triggered by the government’s decisions to eliminate petrol subsidies and unify forex markets,” the statement read.
Additionally, citing a warning from the United Nations Department of Safety and Security regarding the potential hijacking of the planned protests in Nigeria for ulterior motives, the Forum stressed the importance of appealing to citizens to abstain from participating in the protest.