In a recent press release, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, the Presidential candidate of the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP) at the 2023 polls, has urged Nigerians to redirect their planned protests towards the ballot box in the next national election.
Address to Nigerians
“My Fellow Nigerians,
It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I share my thoughts on the current situation in Nigeria. We found ourselves in avoidable hardship because our leaders missed some steps since 2007. However, there is always room for correction and setting the country on the right track for economic development, prosperity, and better welfare of citizens. This could be achieved through ensuring good governance, respect for the rule of law, transparency, and accountability.”
Kwankwaso lamented the adverse effects of poor governance on citizens, stating, “It is sad to note that the attitude of our leaders to poor governance plunged the citizens, especially youth, into anger, hunger, insecurity, hopelessness, and about giving up on the country. Interferences by the Federal Government into the affairs of the chieftaincy matters in Kano State, impeachment of the Deputy Governor of Edo State, political crises in Rivers State, sabotage to Aliko Dangote refinery, controversies surrounding SAMOA agreement, the conflict between Sen. Ali Ndume and the APC Leadership, widespread insecurity, and other criminal acts are a few examples of avoidable and unnecessary crises.”
He continued, appealing to the country’s leadership, “We appeal to the leadership of the country at all levels to take necessary steps to address the myriad challenges facing the country.”
Expressing his deep belief in Nigeria’s potential, Kwankwaso emphasised the importance of patience and electoral participation: “Today, I speak to you not just as an elder and a concerned citizen but as someone who deeply believes in the power and potential of our great nation. The recent calls for protests against bad governance resonate with me, as they reflect our collective frustration and yearning for a better Nigeria. However, I urge Nigerians to put our country first before any other consideration by way of being patient with the government and giving it all necessary support to succeed. If any government fails to provide the necessary leadership for better Nigeria, we will have the opportunity as citizens to elect the people who can bring the required change using our votes.”
Kwankwaso warned against the potential negative outcomes of protests: “In these trying times, our nation stands at a crossroads. Our collective frustration with bad governance has reached a boiling point, and the urge to protest is strong. As an elder and patriotic Nigerian, I share your concerns and your desire for change. However, I urge you to consider the consequences of national protests and to channel your energy into a more effective and peaceful means of transformation—through the power of your ballot.”
He highlighted the risks associated with protests, saying, “Protests, while a fundamental democratic right, often come with unforeseen and dire consequences. The tragic events of the past have shown us that protests can escalate into violence, leading to loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread chaos. The repercussions of such actions extend far beyond the immediate moment, leaving scars on our communities and deepening divisions among us.”