Don’t protest, dialogue with govt, CAN tells Ekiti youths

The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Ekiti State has said they would not participate in the planned nationwide protest against hardship in the country scheduled to commence on August 1.

The Christian body urged citizens of the state, especially youths in the state, to shun the planned protest, adding that the protest wouldn’t solve the country’s socio-economic problems but would further worsen the situation.

The CAN chairman, Ekiti State Branch, Rev’d Emmanuel Aribasoye, who addressed newsmen in Ado-Ekiti, the state capital, on Wednesday, noted that although Nigerians are facing severe economic hardship due to the federal government’s poor economic policies, the present situation could only be salvaged through engagements and dialogues with the authorities.

He said, “The Christians in Ekiti are not going to be part of the protest because of the impending danger that may result from it. While we recognise that peaceful protest is a legal means of expressing grievances to the government, we appeal to the conscience of the people, especially the youths in Ekiti, to reconsider this path and seek dialogue and consultation as a way to achieve lasting peace.

“We believe in the teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ, who advocates for peace and tolerance in all circumstances. We commend the leadership of Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji and his commitment to the development of Ekiti State, as well as his desire for shared prosperity for all. We urge all stakeholders to appreciate his efforts and refrain from actions that may disrupt the peace and progress in our state.

“Ekiti is not immune to the challenges facing our nation, and it is crucial for all parties to engage in constructive dialogue to address the issues at hand. We acknowledge the willingness of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to listen to the concerns of the agitators and urge all government officials to work towards improving the lives of all citizens.

“Let us all come together in prayer for the peace and prosperity of our nation. May our leaders be guided by wisdom and compassion as they seek to address the needs of the people. Together, let us strive for a peaceful resolution to our challenges and build a better future for all Nigerians.”

He, however, advised the federal government to expedite actions to address the concerns of the citizens relating to the economic challenges, noting that it might be impossible to stop any form of demonstration in the future if the situation persists.

“We are calling on the government to do the needful in addressing the concerns of the people because if we succeed in stopping this protest, the next one in the future might be uncontrollable and lead to a revolution in the future if this situation does not change,” he said.

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