A word of caution has been issued by the Kaduna State chapter of the Middle Belt Forum, MBF, advising all Middle Belt youths in the state to avoid taking part in the scheduled protest against President Bola Tinubu’s government.
Highlighting that the protest not only raises security and safety concerns but could also be manipulated by unknown sponsors to serve their own agendas.
In a statement following an executive meeting on Wednesday, Mr. Yusuf Solomon Danbaki, the Public Relations Officer of the MBF Kaduna, pointed out, “Though peaceful demonstrations are warranted to highlight the current national challenges and draw government attention, the infiltration of violent foreign elements has brought about legitimate security apprehensions within the Chapter.
“Our youths are known for their orderly conduct, civility, and discipline, and should not be associated with any disruptive behavior.”
Mr. Danbaki informed that the security situation has been escalated to Dr. Bitrus Pogu, the National President of the MBF, who is collating inputs from other Middle Belt states before issuing an official stance on behalf of the entire region.
There are reports reaching the EXCO indicating that individuals from neighboring countries in the north have already descended on Kaduna State in readiness to partake in the protest, possibly escalating into violence.
This unwelcome development could endanger the safety of the event and dilute the intended message of the protestors.
The meeting concluded that it was imperative for Middle Belt residents in Kaduna State to unify for a collective cause in the interest of their welfare, the progress, and the advancement of Kaduna State and Nigeria as a whole.