A Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called for the protection of protesters amid growing concerns that the demonstrations have been hijacked by criminal elements and political actors with nefarious intentions.
In a statement this morning (Friday, August 2) in Abuja, Auwal Rafsanjani, Executive Director of CISLAC, condemned the hijacking of the peaceful protest in some places.
While calling for the protection of protesters, he, however, urged them not to destroy properties and public infrastructure.
Rafsanjani expressed deep concern over the deteriorating security situation and the influence of non-state actors in several states, including Kano.
He said the situation, observed through CISLAC’s situation room, indicated that security operatives were being influenced by political interference linked to local rivalries, leading to inadequate protection of peaceful protesters.
“The peaceful demonstrations by Nigerians, initially intended to express legitimate grievances, have unfortunately been hijacked and turned into violent chaos.
“Criminal elements are exploiting the protests to create further unrest and undermine public safety,” he said.
CISLAC boss emphasised that the government must refrain from politicising security measures, particularly in Kano, and prioritise the protection of lives and properties, adding that the violence and destruction currently witnessed were contrary to the intentions of the peaceful protesters.
Rafsanjani also condemned provocative statements made by public officials, which according to him, have exacerbated tensions and incited further unrest.
“Reckless and provocative statements by public officials can incite Nigerians to take to the streets. Such statements undermine the legitimacy of the protesters’ concerns and should be avoided,” he warned.
He criticised the government’s alleged sponsorship of counter-protests aimed at undermining the legitimate demonstrations.
“The government’s actions have endangered peaceful protesters, leading to attacks and hijacking by thugs and non-state actors.”
He said CISLAC had previously called on the government to ensure the protection of peaceful protesters, a measure that, if properly implemented, could have prevented the current state of chaos.
“We have observed troubling trends and urge genuine protesters to continue their demonstrations peacefully to prevent criminals from exploiting the situation.
“We appeal to all Nigerians to avoid any violent, criminal, and political destruction. The protests, meant to address legitimate concerns, should not be equated with criminal activities and violence,” Rafsanjani, assuring that the group, as the name implies, remains committed to advocating the protection of citizens’ rights and ensuring that their voices are heard in a safe and peaceful manner.
