The 2023 presidential candidate of New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), Sen. Rabi’u Kwankwaso, has cautioned that while embarking on protest is a fundamental democratic right, it often escalates into violence, leading to the loss of lives, destruction of property, and widespread chaos.
Kwankwaso said this in a statement he personally signed and made available to newsmen on Saturday in kano in reaction to nationwide strike being planned by some Nigerians to begin on August 1.
The former Kano State Governor told Nigerians to seek change through democratic means rather than protests.
He noted that the country find itself in hardship which he said was avoidable because the country’s leaders missed some steps since 2007.
Kwankwaso emphasized that effective and lasting change can only be achieved through the power of the ballot.
He said, “It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I share my thoughts on the current situation in Nigeria.
“We find 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.”
Kwankwaso who is also a former Minister of Defence also called on Nigerian leaders at all levels to address the challenges facing Nigerians by ensuring good governance and adherence to the rule of law.
Acknowledging the recent calls for protests, Kwankwaso recognised the collective frustration and yearning for a better Nigeria but cautioned against the potential consequences of such actions.
He urged Nigerians to consider the power of their votes as the most effective tool for change.
Kwankwaso advised: “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 cautioned that protest, while a fundamental democratic right, often escalates into violence, leading to the 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.
“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.
“Let us put our country first and work together to build the Nigeria we all aspire to see,” Kwankwaso urged.