Teslim Folarin, a former senator and governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC), has appealed to Nigerians planning mass protests to reconsider, warning that such actions could exacerbate the country’s economic woes.
According to Folarin, while Nigerians are experiencing significant hardship due to ongoing economic reforms, mass protests will only worsen the situation. “The government has acknowledged the current economic challenges and assured that the difficulties are temporary, preceding eventual relief,” he stated.
“There is no denying the fact that Nigerian masses are currently undergoing economic hardship due to economic reforms being undertaken by the government. The government has been honest in admitting the hardship. The government has also assured that what Nigerians are currently going through is the pain that precedes the relief.
“No responsible government would want its citizens to suffer, and I dare say, that no government would fold its hands while the citizens’ livelihood and survival are being undermined. As Mr. President has said, he and his team are working round the clock to turn things around.
“As a stakeholder in our body polity, I have significant doubts that the planned nationwide protest would achieve anything tangible. The reason is simple – the proposed nationwide protest tagged #DaysofRage, #EndBadGovernance, and others is being championed by yet-to-be-identified individuals and/or civil society organizations. Besides, security agencies have informed of credible intelligence of plans to hijack the protests.
Folarin emphasized that the planned protests are unlikely to achieve any tangible results and could be hijacked by miscreants, leading to chaos similar to the #EndSARS protests. “The right to protest is fundamental, but we cannot risk it being turned into another violent episode,” he added.
“Let me make it crystal clear, that the right to protest is enshrined in the Nigerian constitution and is a fundamental aspect of democracy, underscoring the public’s right to express discontent with government policies and actions. But can the country gamble on the protest not being hijacked by miscreants, thereby turning it into another #EndSARS?
“Replicating Kenya’s Gen Z protests in Nigeria is an ill-wind that will blow Nigeria and Nigerians no good.
“My other area of concern, is that the planned nationwide protest is already hurting economic activities. There is already panic buying and selling. The planned protest, which is likely to turn violent will send a negative signal about Nigeria’s democratic stability, and further impact investors’ confidence.
“My last area of concern is that terrorists and criminal elements will take advantage to cause mayhem, and destabilize the country. Nigerians are reminded how hard we fought to enthrone this democracy.
“To this end, I strongly appeal to Nigerians, especially the youth, to shelve their planned nationwide protests and be patient with the government. Let us give the government more time to properly implement its economic policies and programs.
“Violent actions, which the protest is likely to lead to, are not the panacea to our current economic situation. Constructive dialogue between government and citizens remains key.
Folarin also expressed concerns that the protests could deter investors and further damage Nigeria’s economy. “There is already panic buying and selling, and the planned protests could send negative signals about our democratic stability,” he noted.
In conclusion, Folarin called on the Governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde, to return from his annual holiday and provide leadership during this challenging time, noting the volatility of Ibadan, the state’s capital.
“I want to conclude by appealing to the Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, who is the leader of the state at this point, cut short his annual holiday, to be on the ground to provide leadership at this trying time. May I remind the governor that Ibadan is the third largest city in Nigeria and is a violent-prone zone?”
Folarin’s appeal comes as security agencies warn of credible intelligence indicating potential plans to hijack the protests, raising further concerns about the potential for violence and instability.
