The Senior Special Assistant to the President on Sustainable Development Goals, Princess Adejoke Orelope-Adefulire, has appealed for calm and cautioned against the planned nationwide protest by individuals and groups.
Orelope-Adefulire warned that demonstrations could plunge the country into chaos, impede progress and undermine Nigeria’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals if not properly managed.
In a statement, the former Lagos State deputy governor noted that “when crises and uncertainties prevail, the focus shifts from constructive dialogue and development to managing chaos.”
The presidential aide therefore urged those spoiling for the protest to embrace dialogue with the government and offer sustainable solutions to the prevailing issues.
While emphasising that the right to peaceful protest is constitutional under the constitution, she said the potential risks and unintended consequences of leaderless and spontaneous movements warrant careful consideration.
Princess Orelope-Adefulire, who stated that the “possibility of the protest escalating into an uncontrollable crisis necessitates a cautious approach, maintained that meaningful progress could only be achieved in an atmosphere of peace, dialogue, and stability, “as globally recognised and enshrined in Goal 16 of the SDGs. Therefore, maintaining law and order is paramount.”
Noting that the planned protest lacks clear leadership and organisational structure, she said: “While spontaneity may appear democratic and inclusive, it poses significant risks.
“Without designated leaders to guide and control the protest’s direction, the movement is vulnerable to infiltration by malicious elements.
“History has shown that leaderless protests can quickly devolve into chaos, resulting in property damage, violence, and the loss of lives.”
She pointed out the consequences of such “leaderless protests,” citing the #EndSARS protest, which resulted in numerous casualties, wanton destruction, and vandalism that left many businesses looted across the country.
According to her, the country has not fully recovered from the impacts.
Princess Orelope-Adefulire noted that while there are challenges like insecurity and terrorism amidst the social and economic issues facing the country, the administration of President Bola Tinubu is acutely aware of their effects and is committed to addressing them even in the face of the global economic downturn.
“What the country needs now is a continuous dialogue and the collective responsibility of the citizenry to support the government in promoting the welfare and security of the people, as stipulated in Section 24(d) of the Nigerian Constitution.
“This responsibility includes fostering an environment conducive to constructive dialogue, peaceful coexistence, and sustainable development,” she said.
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
and then